Finding yourself re-reading the same email multiple times? Hitting snooze more often than you used to, even after a full night’s sleep?
Feeling exhausted by mid-afternoon when the day is only half over?
Many people assume they’re simply run down. However, iron deficiency and low vitamin B12 can cause fatigue, brain fog and low energy that feel remarkably similar to a busy lifestyle.
This article explains what low iron and B12 can feel like, why they happen, and what support is available, including:
What does “tired all the time” actually feel like?
When people think of iron deficiency, they often picture feeling sleepy.
However, many describe it as feeling as though their energy reserve is permanently running low.
Some common experiences include:
- Feeling flat by the middle of the afternoon (more than it might after a big lunch)
- Struggling to concentrate at work
- Needing the weekend to recover from the week, rather than enjoying it
- Losing motivation for exercise
- Feeling physically drained after activities that previously felt manageable
Low B12 can create similar symptoms, which is why both conditions are sometimes overlooked for months.
Brain fog is often one of the first clues
Brain fog is one of the most common reasons people start wondering whether something else is going on.
It can feel like:
- Forgetting simple tasks
- Losing your train of thought mid-conversation
- Difficulty focusing during meetings
- Feeling mentally slower than usual
Iron helps carry oxygen around the body, while vitamin B12 supports healthy nerve and brain function. When levels are low, concentration, memory and mental sharpness can all be affected.
It’s not just adults.
Iron deficiency is often discussed in adults, but it is surprisingly common in children too. This 2-minute report from 9 News Australia explains why iron deficiency is becoming an increasing concern for Australian families and highlights some of the signs parents should be aware of.
Why iron levels become low
Iron deficiency can develop for several reasons, and it is particularly common among women.
Some of the more common causes include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pregnancy
- Increased physical activity
- Low dietary iron intake
- Problems absorbing iron from food
We’ve listed some causes that are specific to women, which is why iron deficiency risk assessment is a part of women’ s health services.
Healthdirect Australia provides further information about iron deficiency and its causes, see here for more details.
Why B12 levels become low
Vitamin B12 deficiency is less well known, but it can affect energy levels, concentration and overall wellbeing.
Common reasons for low B12 include:
- Vegetarian or vegan diets
- Reduced absorption with age
- Certain medications
- Digestive conditions that affect nutrient absorption
More information around testing and treatment is available from Australian Prescriber, which you can find here.
Small changes that can support iron levels
Depending on the cause, improving iron levels may involve increasing iron-rich foods, reviewing dietary habits, or treating an underlying issue that is affecting absorption.
Pairing iron-rich foods with foods high in vitamin C can also help improve iron absorption.
While supplements can be useful for some people, they are not always the best solution for everyone, which is why understanding the cause of low iron is important.
Do iron infusions hurt?
This is one of the most common questions people ask.
An iron infusion involves delivering iron through a small drip into a vein. Most patients describe it as similar to having an injection, just a small pinch or slight discomfort.
Once in place, the infusion itself is generally well tolerated.
At Trident Medical Centre, iron infusions are available for patients when clinically appropriate.
Support is available
If you’ve noticed that your energy levels are not bouncing back, your concentration feels different, or fatigue is starting to affect everyday life, there may be more to the story than simply being busy.
The doctors at Trident Medical Centre can assess iron and B12 levels, discuss treatment options, and help identify whether an underlying deficiency could be contributing to the way you’re feeling.
