Iron is the main ingredient in hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin. As a result, muscles get less oxygen and energy is reduced. Iron deficiency anemia occurs more often in women than in men.
Food is the main source of the body's iron.
Children and the elderly, who are often on special diets, or women on weight-loss programs, may not get the iron they need. People who cannot afford to buy healthy foods and eat balanced meals also may have problems getting enough iron in their diet. However, these symptoms are quite general and could mean a number of different problems. Therefore, if you have these symptoms persistently, you should call your doctor for advice. You should not take iron pills without talking with a doctor first.