The Iron Deficiency Test Trend on TikTok

In the past couple of years, viral TikTok videos have hyped a peculiar way to test for iron deficiency at home. The idea is simple: rub a penny, dime, or quarter across your forehead or face and see if a dark line appears. If it does, it supposedly means you have low iron. With a whopping 164 million views, these iron test videos have prompted countless others to raid their coin stash and give it a go. While we can't guarantee the accuracy of these test results, it's an amusing experiment to attempt at home. However, for more reliable methods to assess iron deficiency, let's dive into the symptoms, risks, and treatment options together.

Unmasking the Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron stored to support its vital functions. Low iron affects millions of people worldwide and is considered the most common nutritional deficiency. Since iron deficiency can manifest in various ways, it’s important to know the common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or lacking energy, even after a good night's sleep.
• Pale Skin: A paler complexion than usual, often noticeable in the face, lips, and inner eyelids.
• Brittle Nails: Nails that become fragile, weak, and prone to breakage or splitting.
• Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless or having difficulty catching your breath, especially during physical activities.
• Headaches: Frequent or persistent headaches, which can range from mild to severe.
• Heart Palpitations: Sensation of a rapid or irregular heartbeat, fluttering in the chest.
• Dry Skin: Skin that feels rough, flaky, or unusually dry, lacking its usual moisture.
• Hair Loss: Experiencing excessive hair shedding or noticing thinning hair.
• Dry Mouth: Feeling parched and having a persistent dry sensation in the mouth.
• Swollen or Sore Tongue: Tongue swelling or soreness, sometimes accompanied by a smooth appearance.
• Restless Legs: Unpleasant sensations in the legs, accompanied by an urge to move or discomfort during periods of inactivity.
• Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, low mood, or a loss of interest in activities.
• Cold Hands and Feet: Experiencing unusually cold sensations in the hands and feet, even in warm environments.
• Poor Appetite: A decreased desire to eat or feeling full quickly, resulting in reduced food intake.

If you experience any of these, it's a good idea to seek professional medical advice for an accurate diagnosis. Left untreated, low iron levels can lead to a condition called iron-deficient anemia. Anemia can be caused by various factors, including bleeding in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, pregnancy, regular heavy bleeding during menstruation, or insufficient iron intake in your diet. It may also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as kidney disease, autoimmune diseases, or hypothyroidism. The good news is that, in most cases, iron-deficient anemia is relatively simple to treat. So, it's always wise to seek medical evaluation and guidance. 

The Science of Diagnosing and Treating Iron Deficiency

When it comes to evaluating iron deficiency, TikTok doesn’t hold a candle to healthcare professionals with reliable methods. Let's take a closer look at how doctors diagnose and treat iron deficiency. Legitimate medical tests may include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures various components of your blood, including red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit.
• Hemoglobin, Serum Ferritin, TIBC, and Transferrin Saturation: These blood tests assess iron levels, storage, and transport in your body.
• Comprehensive Medical History and Physical Examination: A doctor may check your heart, breathing, skin, hair, and nails. They will likely ask about any symptoms you've experienced to gain a holistic understanding of your health. 

To address iron deficiency, healthcare professionals might recommend increasing iron-rich foods in your diet or taking iron supplements. It never hurts to focus on a diet with iron-rich foods such as:

• dark leafy greens (including spinach, kale, and Swiss chard)
• peas
• brussels sprouts
• sweet potatoes
• dried fruits (like figs, dates, raisins, and apricots)
• whole grain breads, cereals, and pasta
• fortified milk and dairy products
• meat (especially beef, veal, and liver)
• turkey
• chicken
• tuna
• sardines
• soybeans
• tofu
• nuts
• beans and legumes

While a balanced diet can help, there are cases where iron supplements are necessary to replenish iron stores following an iron deficiency diagnosis. It is recommended to speak to your health care practitioner before implementing iron supplements in your everyday routine as excessive amounts of iron can lead to iron toxicity. 

Introducing Iron+™ Supplement: The Non-Constipating Solution

Taking a health supplement sounds like a simple solution, but many iron supplements on the market come with unwanted side effects that can make it challenging to stick with them. Common complaints include constipation, nausea, indigestion, cramps, gas, and bloating. It's no secret that iron can be tough on the digestive system. However, we're here to offer a different approach. 

Say hello to Iron+™ from Natura-Genics®- the iron supplement that's gentle on your GI tract, allowing you to take control of your iron levels without the discomfort. Iron+™ is specially formulated to restore iron levels and promote overall well-being while eliminating painful side effects throughout your wellness journey. So, what sets Iron+™ apart from the rest?

The secret lies in the combination of Ferrochel® and organic spinach. Ferrochel® is a patented, highly absorbable form of iron that won't leave you constipated. It's gentle on the digestive system, ensuring a smooth experience. Plus, organic spinach is an excellent natural iron source, packed with fiber that promotes healthy digestion. With Iron+™, you get the best of both worlds. Additionally, Iron+™ offers a range of benefits:

• Supports Hemoglobin & Myoglobin Production: Hemoglobin and myoglobin are vital proteins responsible for carrying oxygen to every corner of the body. By boosting these proteins, Iron+™ aids optimal oxygen delivery, promoting reduced fatigue and other symptoms of low iron.
• Promotes Increased Energy: With adequate iron levels, your cells receive the oxygen they need to function at their best. This leads to increased energy levels, bidding adieu to the fatigue, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath caused by anemia.
• Supports Overall Well-Being: Iron is an essential mineral for growth, development, and overall health. Boosting iron levels help safeguard the body from illness, the likelihood of bruising, and cognitive decline.

With Iron+™ by your side, you can take charge of your iron levels and embark on a wellness journey free from digestive discomfort. Say goodbye to the typical struggles associated with iron supplements and experience the benefits of a non-constipating solution designed to support your body's iron needs. Let Iron+™ be your ally in achieving optimal iron levels and enjoying a vibrant, energized life. 

Your Hispanic American Health Store

Health Hispanica® is a Hispanic-American health store specializing in supplements from Hispanic-American-owned brands such as Natura-Genics® and Yerba Farma®. We strive to provide quality and innovative supplements at fair prices and educate our clients and community on healthy living.

The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.