Recent research has highlighted the significant influence of iron levels on mental health. Iron is crucial for the production of neurotransmitters that play a key role in mental well-being, and deficiencies in iron can worsen symptoms of depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Even individuals without iron-deficiency anemia can benefit from iron supplementation, as it can improve mood and reduce fatigue. However, awareness about the connection between iron and mental health remains limited among healthcare providers and patients.
As evidence linking iron and mental health continues to grow, individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions may consider getting tested and incorporating iron-rich foods into their diet or taking iron supplements.
While it is widely recognized that mental health issues have various underlying factors, including brain structure, genetics, and life experiences, the role of nutrition and nutrient utilization in mental health is gaining attention. Iron, in particular, has emerged as a key nutrient that influences mental well-being.
Dr. Stephanie Weinberg Levin, a psychiatrist at Michigan Medicine and the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, delved into the topic during her fellowship in integrative psychiatry. Together with former psychiatry resident Dr. Theresa Gattari, she summarized the current knowledge about the link between iron and mental health in a review article for fellow psychiatrists.
To ensure an adequate intake of iron, individuals are encouraged to consume foods rich in this nutrient like whole grains, dried fruits, eggs, iron-fortified cereals, liver, lean red meat (particularly beef), poultry, dark red meat, oysters, tuna and salmon.
In conclusion, it is essential for everyone, including those with mental health conditions, to consume iron-rich foods as part of a balanced diet. Many individuals do not obtain sufficient iron from their diet alone. Therefore, it may be beneficial for individuals with mental health conditions to discuss with their healthcare provider the possibility of ordering a ferritin test, which measures iron levels in a specific way. If the test reveals low iron levels, increasing dietary iron intake and considering iron supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional may be recommended.