Iron and it’s Effects on the Muscles

​If you are like me and have or have ever experienced iron-deficiency, you would know all too well the complications it can have on your daily life.  If you have let this deficiency slip out of control and are experiencing the uncomfortable symptoms which can widely vary depending on the severity, it might be time to take control now.

With my busy life as a mother of three, one of which I am still breastfeeding and attending to most of the night, working and training for a ½ marathon, I hit a bit of a low this week.  With my shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, dizziness, weakness, headaches and generally feeling pretty unwell, I definitely experienced a lull in my training and performance this week.
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There are many reasons why you might be iron deficient (which is best discussed with your treating GP).  For me, I believe running and breastfeeding are my causes.  Compromised iron levels in runners or athletes can be pretty common, especially in women.  The body easily loses this mineral in a variety of ways including menstrual cycles, urine, sweat, body inflammation and poor gut health.

Iron is such an important mineral for your health as it helps the red blood cells transport oxygen to your working muscles.  When there is a lack of oxygen in your muscles and the red blood cells are low, this is when you can have toxins accumulate due to poor circulation issues.  Ultimately, toxin accumulation will have a negative effect on your immune system.  Also in some cases this can contribute to pain in the muscles, muscle fatigue and active Trigger Point pain.

Talking with your doctor in regards to the best way forward is very important, whether that be through diet changes or supplements.  You can also implement deep-tissue massages into your regular routine as this can also help increase your blood circulation which will reduce your toxin buildup and ease your muscle pain.  Lymphatic drainage massage can assist if you are experiencing excessive toxin accumulation.

Active women can be more prone to iron deficiency and a pro-active approach to managing these risks will improve your muscle health and prolong your ability to exercise.  To overcome my slump this week I got myself to my remedial massage practitioner and become more diligent with my iron/vitamin B supplements, diet and rest.

In health,
Carly Allen
Remedial Massage Therapist