Iron (NLOSS)

Patient Information Factsheet

North London Obesity Surgery Service (NLOSS)

What does iron do?

• Iron is a mineral in your body that is very important.
• It helps build blood cells, carries oxygen, supports enzyme function and immune system function. Removes toxins (detoxification), supports growth and development.

What happens if my iron is low/if I do not get enough iron?

• If iron deficiency (low levels of iron) continues for a long time, you can develop problems with infections, serious heart problems, or problems with pregnancy if you are a woman.
• If you have a serious injury or require surgery, it is also more dangerous if you have iron deficiency.

What are other symptoms?

• Swollen tongue
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Difficulty thinking/slow thinking
• Leg cramps/restless leg syndrome
• Ice eating and/or Pica (cravings for non-food items like dirt, starch, paper, etc)

Where can I get iron?

• Iron can be found in both foods and dietary supplements.
• The best food sources are liver, beef, lamb, fish/shellfish, poultry, and egg yolk.
• There are also non-animal sources of iron including dried fruits, kidney beans, lentils, cashews, blackstrap molasses.
• It is very important to know that the iron in animal protein is MUCH better absorbed than the other sources.
• Having foods with vitamin C, like orange juice, tomatoes, or sweet peppers, can help your body absorb iron better.
• There are also supplements that provide iron in liquids and pills.
• If you have iron deficiency, your Doctor will probably ask you to take an iron supplement and watch what you eat.

Other important things

• If you are taking iron, do not take it at the same time as a calcium supplement or foods that contain calcium (such as milk, yoghurt, cheese and tinned fish). This is because the calcium will reduce the benefits of the iron supplement.
• Take iron supplements with a meal that contains iron-rich foods such as meat.
• The Doctor will give you care instructions as well as appointments for follow ups and tests. You must follow any care they recommend and attend these appointments.

Contact our service

Should you need more information, please contact our Specialist Bariatric Dietitians on 0207 288 5989, Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.