People who feel tired, even after a full night of sleep, should ask their doctor to test them for a common problem that millions put down to a busy lifestyle. In reality, ignoring the red flags could leave people at serious risk of harm.

If you’ve ever felt drained and weary despite getting a full night’s rest, it might be time to consult your doctor. What many dismiss as a symptom of a hectic lifestyle could actually be a warning sign of a prevalent health issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

In a recent episode of the “No Appointment Necessary” podcast, Dr. Amir Khan, a familiar face from ITV and a practicing NHS GP, highlighted a widespread health concern. He explained that anaemia, often due to blood loss from menstruation, is “so common” among women approaching or experiencing perimenopause.

“Tiredness is the most common symptom we see,” Dr. Khan noted. “Women frequently attribute their exhaustion to their busy lives. However, if you find that even after a good night’s sleep you still feel unrefreshed, anaemia might be the underlying cause.”

Dr. Khan also pointed out that frequent infections could serve as another red flag. Since iron and red blood cells are crucial for a robust immune system, a deficiency can leave individuals more susceptible to infections.

What does the NHS say?

Seeking medical advice is crucial if you suspect iron deficiency anaemia. Without treatment, it can increase vulnerability to illnesses and infections, and pose complications affecting the heart and lungs. For pregnant women, it could also heighten the risk of prenatal and postnatal complications.

According to the NHS, iron deficiency anaemia is the most prevalent form of anaemia globally, impacting billions. Heavy menstrual cycles and pregnancy are among the most common causes of this condition.

Is iron deficiency anaemia treatable?

Once the reason for your iron deficiency anaemia has been found, the GP will recommend treatment. If the test comes back showing a low red blood cell count, doctors will often prescribe iron tablets that will need to be taken for about six months.

What food should I be having more of?

Iron is an important mineral that our bodies need to make red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. Despite needing it, the human body does not naturally produce any iron, so diet is the best way to obtain enough iron daily.

According to the NHS, the amount of iron people need depends on their age and gender assigned at birth. Men over 19 and women over 50 need 8.7mg per day, while women between 19 and 49 are recommended to double that dose to 14.8mg per day (accounting for blood loss during periods).

There are several foods that are rich in iron and can help the body stay on top of this daily demand. The NHS suggests that people try to eat more:

• dark-green leafy vegetables (like watercress and curly kale)
• cereals and bread with extra iron in them (fortified)
• red meats (beef, lamb, pork, veal, mutton, venison, and goat)
• beans, such as red kidney beans, edamame beans and chickpeas
• dried fruit (like apricots, prunes and raisins)
• pulses (beans, peas and lentils)

People should also try to drink less tea, coffee, milk and dairy. Foods with high levels of phytic acid, such as wholegrain cereals, can also stop your body absorbing iron from other foods and tablets.