What condition can lead to iron deficiency?

Excessive blood loss, such as heavy menstruation, is a primary condition that can lead to iron deficiency. This occurs because iron is a crucial component in hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. When there is significant blood loss, not only is there a loss of red blood cells, but there is also a depletion of iron stores in the body. Women who experience heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency anemia because they lose a considerable amount of blood regularly. Inadequate iron intake or absorption due to dietary insufficiencies often contributes to the deficiency but is typically compounded by additional factors such as blood loss.

In contrast, a diet high in protein, activation of vitamin absorption, and overconsumption of fruit and vegetables are generally not associated with causing iron deficiency directly. High protein diets may provide sources of iron, while certain vitamins (like vitamin C) can enhance iron absorption. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables, while they may contain less iron than meats, are part of a balanced diet essential for overall health and do not inherently lead to iron deficiency.