You are here: PharmacyArticlesDiabetes CanadaType 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency Read more articles on: Diabetes Canada Published on: August 11, 2020 Last Updated On: September 3, 2020 Free Delivery: Your medication is delivered directly to you at no added cost. We even offer same-day delivery in selected locations. Discreet Packaging: Your privacy is important. That's why we send your medication inside a plain delivery box so no one will know what's inside. Type 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system destroys the cells producing insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the cells absorb glucose from the food you eat. As insulin is insufficient in Type 1 diabetes, glucose cannot be efficiently utilized by your body, increasing its blood level. Certain complications associated with Type 1 diabetes, such as kidney damage, are responsible due to iron deficiency, which may also alter sugar levels. Iron deficiency or anemia, is a common condition affecting 20%-25% of the world’s population. Iron is an essential nutrient, and its deficiency is associated with decreased quality of life. Talk to your doctor to have your iron levels checked if you have Type 1 diabetes.Table of Contents Type 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency RiskDiabetic NephropathyNephropathyCeliac DiseaseSymptoms of Type 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency AnemiaType 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency Anemia DietIron Supplements for Type 1 DiabeticsFinal ThoughtsType 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency RiskThe following Type 1 diabetes-associated complications may increase the risk of iron deficiency.Diabetic NephropathyAnemia is a condition where the body produces fewer red blood cells. Kidneys produce hormones called erythropoietin that regulate the formation of red blood cells. These blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the rest of the body. Failing to manage sugar levels in diabetes may damage the part of the kidneys that filter blood. The damaged kidney cannot produce enough EPO, resulting in fewer red blood cells. Damaged kidneys need hemodialysis to manage the purification of blood, resulting in loss of blood and nutrients such as iron. In conclusion, diabetic nephropathy may result in fewer red blood cells and iron deficiency.NephropathyAbnormal sugar levels may also damage nerves responsible for controlling involuntary functions of the body, resulting in a condition known as autonomic neuropathy. In this case, the body is unable to signal the kidneys to produce erythropoietin adequately, ultimately resulting in fewer red blood cells and anemia.ALSO READ What are the most common side effects of Ozempic & how to manage themCeliac DiseaseThere is a genetic link between Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, and having Type 1 diabetes increases the risk of celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease where gluten ingestion triggers the immune response and damages the small intestine. In addition to gluten, celiac disease also hampers the absorption of other nutrients, including iron.Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency AnemiaAs the body gets less oxygen, you feel weak and fatigue. Some common symptoms include:DizzinessPale skinCold feet and handsShortness of breathHeadacheChest painRapid heartbeatLow body temperatureType 1 Diabetes and Iron Deficiency Anemia DietIf you are deficient in iron, your doctor may advise iron-rich foods like:BeansChicken and beefSquash and pumpkin seedsDried fruitsGreen leafy vegetables such as spinachEggsSeafood such as sardines, oysters, clams, shrimpIron-fortified cerealsVitamin C boosts absorption of iron, including vitamin-C rich foods which improve iron levels. Some sources of vitamin C include:BroccoliGreen and red bell peppersFruits such as grapefruits, kiwis, oranges, and melonsCauliflowerBrussels sproutsTomatoesIron Supplements for Type 1 DiabeticsThe doctor may prescribe over-the-counter iron supplements to manage iron-deficiency. Iron can also be taken in liquid form, especially by children and infants. The doctor will decide on an ideal dose based on your diagnosis.To improve iron absorption, your doctor may advise the following:Avoid taking the iron supplement with antacids: Medications that help manage heartburn are seen to alter iron absorption. It is recommended to take iron supplements 2-4 hours after taking antacids.Take it on an empty stomach: Taking it on an empty stomach improves its absorption. However, if it upsets your stomach, it is a good idea to take it with meals.Take Vitamin C: Vitamin C boosts the absorption of iron. Your doctor might advise taking iron tablets with vitamin C supplements or orange juice.ALSO READ Coronavirus (COVID-19) and DiabetesIron supplements may also cause constipation. In such cases, the doctor would prescribe a stool softener, or perhaps incorporating more fiber into your diet.Foods that decrease iron absorption and thus should be avoided taking with iron supplements are:CaffeineMilkHigh fiber foodsAntacidsYou may feel better within a few days of taking iron supplements, but do not stop taking supplements without consulting your doctor first. It takes several months for your body to build the iron amount essential for your body. Also, consult your doctor before taking iron supplements. If the dose is incorrect, excess iron could build in blood, resulting in iron poisoning.Final ThoughtsIron deficiency or anemia and Type 1 diabetes are often inter-linked. Certain diabetes-related complications such as nephropathy and neuropathy increase the risk of iron deficiency. If you have symptoms of iron deficiency, you should ask your doctor about getting your levels checked. Based on your levels and condition, the doctor might prescribe over-the-counter iron supplements. We're Here for You: Our pharmacists are happy to answer your questions. Get in touch by text, live chat, phone or email. We're standing by 7 days a week. Automatic Refills: We manage your refills and get in touch with your doctors for prescription renewals so that you always have the medication you need. Read More... 11502 Views Share