Aliquot #137: How to Optimize Iron without Causing Overload
Aliquot #137: How to Optimize Iron without Causing Overload
Iron plays a central role in health across the lifespan. It forms the core of hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and it fuels mitochondrial energy production in every cell. Yet both deficiency and overload carry risks. Too little iron leads to anemia and fatigue, while too much can accelerate aging and damage the brain. In this Aliquot, I'll explore how to recognize and address iron deficiency, the unique challenges of iron overload in aging, the ways alcohol may influence brain iron, and how infants tightly regulate iron as a built-in defense against infection.
Get these episodes in a convenient podcast format.
Aliquot episodes make great companion listening for a long drive. You can find these special members-only episodes alongside live recorded Q&As on The Aliquot, our official premium FoundMyFitness podcast.
Iron plays a central role in health across the lifespan. It forms the core of hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and it fuels mitochondrial energy production in every cell. Yet both deficiency and overload carry risks. Too little iron leads to anemia and fatigue, while too much can accelerate aging and damage the brain. In this Aliquot, I'll explore how to recognize and address iron deficiency, the unique challenges of iron overload in aging, the ways alcohol may influence brain iron, and how infants tightly regulate iron as a built-in defense against infection.
-
Is it really iron deficiency?
-
When low ferritin doesn't mean low iron
-
Why not all anemias are iron-related
-
What's the best iron supplement—and how to take it
-
Does excess dietary iron accelerate aging?
-
Is brain iron fueling Parkinson's and Alzheimer's?
-
Are iron overload genes a driver of biological aging?
-
Rethinking mineral supplementation
-
Can alcohol contribute to brain iron overload?
-
Iron's role in infant immunity and development
Attend Monthly Q&As with Rhonda
Support our work
The FoundMyFitness Q&A happens monthly for premium members. Attend live or listen in our exclusive member-only podcast The Aliquot.
Recent Aliquot Episodes
Aliquot #144: How to Slow Joint Degeneration
Joint degeneration is often blamed on aging, but most decline is driven by two modifiable forces: mechanical load and...
Aliquot #143: How to Reduce the Strain of Shift Work
Shift work creates a chronic disruption of circadian rhythms that affects sleep, metabolism, decision-making, and long-term...
Aliquot #142: How to Prevent and Recover From Jet Lag
Jet lag often shows up as fatigue after a long flight, reflecting a mismatch between your internal clock and the external...
Aliquot #141: The Lifestyle of Cancer Prevention
A large share of cancer risk is shaped not by genetics alone, but by everyday patterns of behavior that influence...
Aliquot #140: Should Everyone Cut Out Gluten?
Gluten interacts with the gut barrier in ways that can shift intestinal permeability, but the impact of that shift...