Those at high risk

Teenage girls: Teens are in a very high-risk category for iron deficiencies, often having poor diets with too little iron-rich food (such as red meat, chicken or fish). Growth spurts and the commencement of menstruation are also major contributing factors. Recent research has shown that the cognitive function of even mildly iron deficient young girls is improved with iron supplementation (ref: Lozoff, B. & Georgieff, M. K. Iron deficiency and brain development. Semin Pediatr Neurol 13, 158-65 (2006)).

Pregnant women: During pregnancy, women’s requirements for most vitamins and minerals increase (including iron) to meet the growing baby’s requirements.

Children: Toddlers, early and late teenagers all go through serious growth spurts, often without changing their diets, exposing them to the risk of iron deficiency.

Elderly people: The elderly often have problems with reduced acid production in the stomach and thus suffer from reduced iron utilisation.

People with bowel disorders: These people are less tolerant of certain iron supplements, however, many find chelated iron easier to tolerate.

Haemodialysis patients: Iron balance is critical to these patients.