If you’re always bundled up—even when no one else is cold—or you find yourself yawning through the day despite getting a full night’s sleep, your body could be trying to tell you something. Fatigue, dizziness, and feeling unusually cold are classic signs of iron deficiency, a condition that disproportionately affects women, especially in Pakistan.
Why Iron Matters
Iron is an essential mineral that supports some of your body’s most critical functions. It helps carry oxygen through the bloodstream via red blood cells. Without enough iron, your body simply can’t deliver oxygen efficiently to your organs and muscles. The result? You feel like you’re running on empty—mentally and physically.
In Pakistan, iron deficiency is not rare; it’s one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in women. Heavy menstrual cycles, pregnancy, vegetarian diets without proper supplementation, or simply poor dietary habits can all play a role.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency isn’t always obvious. It can start subtly and worsen over time. Here are some signs your body might be running low on iron:
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Constant fatigue and low energy
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Feeling cold all the time
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Pale skin and brittle nails
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Frequent dizziness or lightheadedness
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Shortness of breath even with mild activity
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Brain fog and poor concentration
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Headaches that feel like tension or pressure
If these symptoms sound familiar, especially if you’ve brushed them off as “normal tiredness,” it might be time to investigate further.
Why Women Are at Higher Risk
Women, especially in their reproductive years, lose iron regularly through menstruation. Add pregnancy and breastfeeding into the mix, and the body’s demand for iron skyrockets. For many, it’s hard to meet these needs through food alone—especially when the typical desi diet may not always be rich in iron-absorbing foods.
Age matters too. Teenage girls and women over 40 both face unique challenges with iron absorption, either because of hormonal shifts or dietary gaps. Left unchecked, chronic iron deficiency can lead to anemia and complications like heart strain, pregnancy issues, and weakened immunity.
What You Can Do About It
A blood test is the only way to confirm iron deficiency—but you don’t need to wait for extreme symptoms to start taking care of yourself. Prevention matters just as much.
Here’s how to start:
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Eat more iron-rich foods like red meat, lentils, spinach, and dates.
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Pair plant-based iron sources with vitamin C (like citrus fruits) to improve absorption.
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Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals—they can interfere with iron absorption.
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Consider a gentle, high-absorption supplement like Versus Super Iron, especially if you're already experiencing symptoms or are at risk due to lifestyle or diet.
Why Versus Super Iron?
Not all iron supplements are made equal. Some are harsh on the stomach or poorly absorbed. Versus Super Iron is formulated with iron bisglycinate—a chelated form of iron that’s gentler on the digestive system and easier for your body to absorb. It also contains folic acid and vitamin C, two nutrients that further enhance iron absorption and support energy production.
The Takeaway
If you’re constantly tired, chilly, or lightheaded, don’t write it off as “normal.” Your body could be running low on iron—and it’s asking for help. By eating smart, staying mindful of your symptoms, and supporting your routine with the right supplement, you can start feeling like yourself again.
