If your iron levels drop, then your body loses its ability to manufacture red blood cells. The lower the number of red blood cells, the lower the amount hemoglobin. As hemoglobin drops, the ability of the blood to carry oxygen drops. In other words, with too little iron, you have less hemoglobin, less oxygen and less energy. In other words, you have tired blood.
Anemia can occur in males or females, however, it is more common in females.
The most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in women is menstrual blood loss. Pregnancy and breast feeding also drain iron stores, contributing to anemia in women. If your anemia is more severe, your doctor will likely prescribe high-dose iron supplements of up to 180 milligrams a day. Be careful though, as too much iron can be toxic. If you are taking iron supplements, take them correctly.