Research is increasingly showing a link between iron deficiency and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Despite the prevalence of iron deficiency, many healthcare providers may not be aware of this connection, according to psychiatrist Dr. Stephanie Weinberg Levin from Michigan Medicine and the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.
Iron plays a vital role in our bodies, aiding red blood cells in distributing oxygen, and is also instrumental in the creation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine – all crucial to mental health.
Surveys have revealed a higher incidence of iron deficiency anemia among people with depression, and a study indicated higher rates of anxiety disorders, depression, sleep disorders, and psychotic disorders in patients with iron deficiency anemia.
Detecting and Addressing Iron Deficiency
Dr. Levin suggests people with mental health conditions request a specific blood test from their healthcare provider to measure their iron levels.
This test, called a ferritin test, can help identify iron deficiency, even in the absence of anemia.
If the ferritin test indicates low iron levels, it’s crucial to increase iron intake through diet and supplements if recommended by a healthcare provider.
Studies have shown improvement in mental health symptoms and cognitive abilities following iron supplementation, even in those who do not meet the criteria for iron-deficiency anemia.
Levin particularly recommends ferritin testing for those who have a mental health condition along with other factors making them more prone to low iron levels.
Safety and Considerations
While iron supplementation can be an effective way to improve mental health in those deficient in iron, it’s important not to exceed recommended levels.
Over-supplementation can lead to harmful effects, and iron supplements should always be kept out of the reach of young children, as they can cause serious and even fatal poisoning.
It’s recommended to select a supplement brand that has been independently tested for safety.
There isn’t yet a consensus on the optimum iron level to aim for through diet changes and supplementation, or how often to test after making these changes.
Generally, Dr. Levin suggests aiming for a ferritin level of 100 ng/ml and testing every 4 to 6 weeks.
Any supplementation should be reported to primary care providers, even if recommended by a mental health provider or started independently.
“Iron supplements are inexpensive and can really make a significant impact in someone’s mental health if they’re deficient,” Levin said.
Her recommendation is a reminder that nutrition plays an integral role in mental health, complementing other important areas such as stress management, sleep habits, and physical activity.
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The study was published in Current Psychiatry.
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