Iron Supplementation for Unexplained Fatigue in Non-Anemic Women
Symptoms Studied
Persistent tiredness and low energy in women without anemia, often with low iron stores (ferritin). Fatigue affecting work, exercise tolerance, and daily activities.
Research Hypothesis
Low iron stores, even without anemia, may cause fatigue through reduced oxygen transport and impaired cellular energy production. Iron supplementation may restore energy.
Intervention Tested
Ferrous Sulfate (Iron)
80mg elemental iron daily as ferrous sulfate tablets
Study Results
Before Treatment
Non-anemic women aged 18-55 with unexplained fatigue and low ferritin levels (51% had ferritin ≤20 μg/L).
After Treatment
Fatigue levels decreased by 29% in the iron group compared to only 13% in the placebo group. Improvement was most pronounced in women with ferritin below 50 μg/L.
Timeline to Improvement
Significant improvement within 4 weeks of supplementation
Side Effects
Generally well-tolerated. Some participants experienced mild GI symptoms common with iron supplements.
Source
- Iron Supplementation for Unexplained Fatigue in Non-Anemic Women
Verdon F, et al. BMJ. 2003;326(7399):1124
Conclusion
Iron supplementation effectively reduces fatigue in non-anemic women with low ferritin levels, particularly those with ferritin below 50 μg/L.
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