8 Signs You Might Have Iron Deficiency (And How elev8 Chelated Iron Can Help!)

Why Iron Matters for Your Health

Iron is an essential mineral responsible for producing hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. It also plays a critical role in muscle metabolism, neurological function, and overall cellular health.

Iron deficiency is the most widespread nutritional deficiency globally, affecting over 2 billion people. Often underdiagnosed, it can lead to iron-deficiency anemia if not addressed, which in turn diminishes quality of life and increases health risks.

Unlike standard iron supplements, our Chelated Iron contains 29 mg of Ferrochel® Ferrous Bisglycinate—a highly absorbable and gentle form of iron. This formulation ensures better bioavailability and minimal gastrointestinal discomfort, making it ideal for long-term use. 

8 Signs You Might Have Iron Deficiency

1- Constant Fatigue and Low Energy Levels

Without adequate iron, your body struggles to produce enough hemoglobin, which limits oxygen delivery to tissues. This results in chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and reduced stamina—especially noticeable during physical or mental exertion.

Feeling tired after a busy day is normal, but persistent exhaustion despite rest may indicate iron deficiency. If your serum iron or ferritin levels are below the functional range of 80–100 ng/mL, it's worth exploring supplementation with chelated iron for a safe, effective boost.

2- You're a Menstruating Female with Low Red Meat Intake

Monthly menstrual cycles can lead to significant iron loss, especially for women with heavy periods. This regular depletion makes it challenging to maintain optimal iron levels—particularly if you're not consuming iron-rich foods like red meat.

Red meat provides heme iron, a type that's more readily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron found in plant sources. Women who follow plant-based diets or consume little red meat are more likely to develop iron deficiency unless they supplement appropriately with options like our Chelated Iron.

3- Pale or Yellowish Skin

Pallor, especially in the face, inner eyelids, and nails, is one of the earliest visual signs of iron deficiency. Reduced red blood cell production leads to decreased oxygenated blood in tissues, making the skin appear unusually pale or even sallow.

If you notice that your complexion seems dull, yellowish, or washed-out, it could be more than just stress or fatigue. A functional medicine evaluation of ferritin levels between 80–100 ng/mL can help confirm whether iron deficiency is a contributing factor.

4- Heart Palpitations and Irregular Heartbeat

Low iron levels cause the heart to work harder to deliver oxygen to vital organs, which can result in palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or even murmurs in severe cases. These symptoms may appear even in individuals without preexisting heart conditions.

If you experience a rapid or fluttering heartbeat alongside fatigue or dizziness, consult your physician. Bloodwork assessing hemoglobin and ferritin levels can pinpoint iron deficiency and help guide proper supplementation with products like our Chelated Iron.

5- Brittle Nails and Hair Loss

Iron supports the production of keratin—a key structural protein in hair and nails. When iron is deficient, hair follicles and nail beds receive less oxygen and nutrients, leading to thinning hair, breakage, and brittle, spoon-shaped nails.

Our Chelated Iron offers a high-bioavailability formula that efficiently restores depleted iron stores, helping to nourish hair and nails from the inside out. When iron levels return to the optimal range of 80–100 ng/mL, many individuals report visibly improved hair strength and nail resilience.

6- Cold Hands and Feet

Iron deficiency can result in poor blood flow to extremities, making your hands and feet feel constantly cold. This symptom is often overlooked but is a clear indication that the body's tissues are not receiving sufficient oxygen.

While cold extremities may be common in winter, persistent chilliness regardless of weather could suggest suboptimal ferritin levels. Keeping ferritin within the 80–100 ng/mL range helps maintain healthy circulation and warmth.

7- Frequent Infections and Weakened Immunity

Iron is essential for the development and proliferation of immune cells. A deficiency impairs immune responses, leaving the body more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections, especially respiratory issues.

Our Chelated Iron helps restore iron to optimal levels, boosting the body's ability to mount strong immune defenses. When iron levels are in the functional range, immune efficiency improves and infection risk decreases.

8- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Low brain iron levels are linked to Restless Legs Syndrome—a neurological condition characterized by uncomfortable sensations and an irresistible urge to move the legs. These symptoms worsen at night and can disrupt sleep.

Research shows that raising iron stores, especially ferritin levels above 75 ng/mL, significantly reduces RLS symptoms. Our Chelated Iron provides a safe, effective way to increase brain iron availability and alleviate nighttime discomfort.

How to Confirm Iron Deficiency

To accurately diagnose iron deficiency, request blood tests such as serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and hemoglobin. Ferritin is especially important as it reflects stored iron levels. Functional medicine practitioners recommend maintaining ferritin between 80–100 ng/mL for optimal wellness—not just the absence of disease.

Conventional ranges may consider ferritin as low as 30 ng/mL "normal," but functional medicine emphasizes that symptoms of iron deficiency often begin below 80 ng/mL. Hemoglobin should ideally remain within gender-specific ranges (13.8–17.2 g/dL for men and 12.1–15.1 g/dL for women). A full iron panel provides better context for understanding overall iron status.

The Advantages of elev8 Chelated Iron

elev8 Chelated Iron utilizes Ferrochel® Ferrous Bisglycinate, a patented amino acid chelate known for superior absorption. Unlike inorganic iron salts, this form resists dietary inhibitors like calcium and phytates, ensuring more efficient iron uptake by the body.

Many traditional iron supplements cause constipation, bloating, or stomach upset. Our formula is gentle on the gastrointestinal tract, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive digestion or those needing long-term supplementation.

Each dose delivers 29 mg of highly bioavailable iron without gluten, yeast, or artificial additives. Manufactured to the highest standards, elev8 Chelated Iron offers a clean, effective solution trusted by both healthcare professionals and wellness enthusiasts.

Shop Chelated Iron HERE!