Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that usually lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. With endometriosis, the tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or intestines.
While anemia and iron deficiency do not commonly accompany endometriosis in women, even with chronic abdominal inflammation and heavy menstrual bleeding, a study from AAA shows that women with endometriosis often report fatigue, weakness, and malaise, which are often symptoms associated with anemia or iron deficiency. However, the symptoms are often not recognized as such or easily dismissed.
Low iron levels may be in addition to excessive blood loss through a heavy menstrual cycle. At the same time, chronic systemic inflammation may be associated with endometriosis due to the unavailability of iron. Studies also show that women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of developing iron-deficient anemia than the general population.
Though endometriosis may not always be linked with anemia, if you experience heavy or prolonged periods and also feel weak, tired, and dizzy frequently, and haven't had your iron levels checked in a while, it may be in your best interest to make an appointment with your doctor and discuss your risk of anemia.
Iron deficiency anemia can be maintained and kept under control by adding a few things and supplements to your diet, such as,
Red lean meats (beef, pork tenderloin), lean meats (chicken, turkey), fish (hake, salmon, etc.), shellfish (cockles, mussels, mollusks, clams), and eggs (bud)
Vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C (raw or al dente: pepper, tomato, and broccoli) and vitamin A (pumpkin, carrot, yellow/red pepper), tangerine, kiwi, blueberries, strawberries) and vitamin A (papaya, mango, tangerine, cantaloupe, orange, etc.)
It is also best to avoid foods that decrease and inhibit the absorption of iron from plant sources, such as,
Calcium-rich foods: dairy, calcium-enriched vegetable drinks, calcium-enriched tofu, and foods with polyphenols: coffee, tea, alcohol (wine, beer), cocoa, and raw nuts.
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