The #1 Most Common Mineral Deficiency in the World

Summary

The presenter identifies iron deficiency as the world’s most common mineral deficiency. He says it can affect people even when routine tests, such as hemoglobin, appear normal, describing this as non-anemic or subclinical iron deficiency.

He discusses ferritin—a protein involved in storing and releasing iron—as a potentially useful test, while noting that inflammation or infection can raise ferritin and complicate interpretation.

Symptoms associated with low iron

• Hair loss or thinning
• Fatigue and weakness
• Heart rhythm changes
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Restless legs and difficulty sleeping
• Unusual sensitivity to cold
• Split nails
• Trouble concentrating
• Muscle or joint aches, sometimes described as fibromyalgia

These symptoms can also resemble those of other health conditions, so they are not proof of iron deficiency on their own.

Possible causes and factors affecting iron

• Low iron intake. The presenter says iron from animal foods is generally more readily absorbed than iron from plants.
• Digestive inflammation or conditions that reduce absorption, including low stomach acid or prior gastric bypass surgery.
• Blood loss, including from menstruation, ulcers, blood donation, or other bleeding.
• Increased iron needs, such as during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or childhood growth.
• Frequent intense exercise, eating disorders, stress, or trauma.
• Foods and drinks that may reduce iron absorption when consumed alongside iron-rich foods, including grains and legumes (phytates), tea and coffee (tannins), and some foods high in polyphenols or oxalates.
• Some medications, including acid-suppressing drugs, and genetic factors. He specifically mentions MTHFR, though the video does not establish a diagnosis for viewers.

Strategies discussed

• Find the underlying cause: Assess diet, digestion, blood loss, and other possible contributors, ideally with a qualified clinician.
• Check appropriate tests: The presenter discusses ferritin alongside standard iron and blood tests, while warning that inflammation can affect ferritin results.
• Prioritize iron-containing foods: He suggests foods such as red meat, liver, and shellfish, and says vitamin-C-containing foods eaten with iron may improve absorption.
• Consider supplements only with appropriate guidance: He mentions iron, liver, and spleen supplements, and says correcting a substantial deficiency may take time.
• Be mindful of meal timing: Tea, coffee, and some plant compounds may interfere with iron absorption when consumed with iron-rich foods.

Excess iron

The presenter also discusses hereditary hemochromatosis, a condition in which the body absorbs too much iron, and says excess iron can harm organs such as the liver, heart, and brain. He suggests several chelating substances and methods, including turmeric, cocoa, black tea, phytic acid/IP6, EDTA, and distilled water. These are presented as his recommendations; iron overload requires medical diagnosis and treatment, and chelation or other interventions should not be attempted without medical supervision.

Presenter/source: Dr. Eric Berg DC.