shutterstock_2382671301.jpegFeeling more tired than usual during workouts? Struggling to keep up with your training or daily routine? For many women and athletes, these symptoms may not just be a result of overtraining or stress—they could point to iron deficiency, a common but often overlooked condition that a>ects both performance and overall well-being.

Why Is Iron So Important?

Iron is a mineral your body needs to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Without enough iron, oxygen delivery is compromised, leading to fatigue, decreased endurance, and impaired cognitive function.

Why Athletes Are at Risk

Athletes, particularly endurance athletes such as runners, swimmers, and cyclists, are at increased risk of iron deficiency due to:

  • Increased iron loss through sweat and gastrointestinal bleeding (common in intense training)
  • Foot strike hemolysis (breaking of red blood cells in the feet from repeated impact)
  • Higher iron demands for muscle repair and oxygen transport
  • Restricted diets, especially in athletes who avoid red meat or follow vegetarian/vegan diets

Even mild iron deficiency can reduce athletic performance long before anemia is diagnosed.

Why Women Are Especially Vulnerable

Women, especially those of reproductive age, are also at greater risk due to:

  • Monthly menstrual blood loss
  • Pregnancy-related demands for fetal development and blood volume expansion
  • Dietary habits that may limit iron-rich food intake
  • Malabsorption syndromes especially Celiac disease

For female athletes, the combination of high physical demands and regular menstruation makes regular iron monitoring especially important.

Common Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Decreased athletic performance
  • Shortness of breath during exercise
  • Pale skin or dark circles under the eyes
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Frequent headaches
  • Dizziness or “brain fog”

If you're experiencing any of these, especially with no other explanation, it's a good idea to get checked.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A simple blood test (CBC and ferritin level) can detect iron deficiency—even before anemia

  • Dietary changes (increased intake of red meat, leafy greens, lentils, fortified cereals)
  • Oral iron supplements
  • IV iron infusions, especially when oral supplements are ine>ective, poorly tolerated, or when quick recovery is needed (e.g., during training season or competitions)

How Our Practice Can Help

At our practice we o>er rapid evaluation and treatment options for iron deficiency, including blood testing and IV iron therapy for patients who need fast results. Whether you're an athlete preparing for your next event or a busy woman managing a full schedule, restoring iron levels can help you feel stronger, think clearer, and perform better—both hysically and mentally.

What to Expect During an IV Iron Infusion

IV iron is administered directly into your bloodstream through a small catheter placed in your arm. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the specific formulation used. Most patients tolerate it very well and can return to normal activities shortly after.

Benefits include:

  • Faster improvement in symptoms
  • No gastrointestinal side e>ects
  • High absorption and e>ective repletion of iron stores

We closely monitor all patients during and after the infusion for rare allergic reactions or side effects.

Ready to Get Checked?

If you're struggling with persistent fatigue or training plateaus, don't ignore it. Schedule a visit with our medical team today and ask about iron screening and treatment options. Your performance and health deserve to be at their best.