Struggling With Low Iron? You Might Need More Than Just Tablets
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you’re concerned about fatigue or iron deficiency, please speak to your GP.
Feeling tired all the time? You’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common reasons people visit their GP. And one of the biggest causes? Low iron, also known as iron deficiency. Many people — and even some doctors — don’t realise just how much iron deficiency can affect your energy levels, mood, and quality of life. So let’s break it down.
What Does Iron Actually Do?
Iron is essential for your body to make red blood cells. These red blood cells carry oxygen around your body — to your brain, muscles, and every other organ. If your iron levels stay low for long enough, you might become anaemic — which means you don’t have enough haemoglobin or red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently. Anaemia can cause serious health problems. But here’s the important part: you don’t have to be anaemic to feel awful.
There’s strong evidence now that iron deficiency alone — even without anaemia — can cause significant fatigue.
Why Do People Become Iron Deficient?
There are a few common reasons iron levels drop:
Not enough iron in your diet – Red meat is the richest source of iron, but plant-based eaters need to pay special attention to getting enough iron through other foods (like legumes, leafy greens, and fortified cereals).
Losing iron through bleeding – This could be heavy periods or, more concerningly, bleeding from the bowel.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding – These are times when your iron requirements go up significantly.
If you’ve been told you’re low in iron, your doctor should help you figure out why — because that helps determine the best treatment approach. Sometimes a dietitian can help you boost your intake, and sometimes managing bleeding (such as with an implanon or IUD) can reduce iron loss.
Iron Tablets: A Good First Step
If you’re iron deficient, your doctor might recommend trying iron supplements first. And here’s a handy tip: taking iron every second day actually helps your body absorb it better.
For many people, iron tablets are effective — but not for everyone.
Some people:
Don’t absorb iron well through the gut
Can’t tolerate the side effects (like nausea, constipation or stomach pain)
Or just never get their levels up despite months of tablets
But What If Tablets Don’t Work?
This is where things get frustrating. Too often, people try iron tablets, feel unwell, and then… give up. They live with ongoing fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, low mood, or worsening menstrual symptoms — all linked to iron deficiency.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
If tablets don’t work (or just aren’t realistic for you), there’s another option: iron infusions.
Iron Infusions: An Underrated Game Changer
Iron infusions are safe, fast, and often life-changing. They deliver iron directly into your bloodstream through a drip, bypassing the gut. Most people feel significantly better within a few days to a few weeks.
So why aren’t they used more?
Some doctors are unsure of the guidelines
Others are concerned about rare side effects
Cost and access can be a barrier for many patients
And sometimes… we just don’t talk about it enough
But for the right person, an iron infusion can mean the difference between just getting through the day — and actually enjoying it.
What’s Involved in an Iron Infusion?
A small cannula is placed into a vein in your arm
The iron is infused slowly over 15–30 minutes (sometimes longer)
You’ll be monitored for a short time afterwards to make sure you feel okay
There is a very small risk of an allergic reaction, but this is extremely rare, especially with the newer iron formulations we use today. Some people get a temporary metallic taste, or feel a bit achey afterwards. Most people tolerate infusions really well.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been told you have low iron, and you’re still feeling exhausted — don’t settle. Ask your doctor if an infusion might be right for you. You deserve to feel better, and iron deficiency is both common and treatable.
Sometimes a simple iron check — and the right treatment — can completely turn things around.
Ready to Feel Better?
If you’re struggling with fatigue, low mood, or poor concentration and wondering if iron could be part of the picture — book an appointment to chat about testing and treatment options, including infusions.
You don’t have to keep running on empty. Let’s figure it out together.