A new study shows that Iron deficiency may have serious consequences in the elderly, suggesting that individuals over the age of 60 should consider supplementation with Iron.
Over 70 women over the age of 60 who lived in 3 separate rural counties in Pennsylvania participated in this study. All participants were considered to be well nourished, free of inflammation, and were thought to be healthy. However, when the participants Iron stores were assessed, many of them were determined to be Iron deficient. Half of the Iron deficient women were Anemic and the rate of Iron deficiency among the participants was considered to be moderate.
Cells from the participant’s blood samples, both Iron sufficient and Iron deficient participants were subjected to several immune response tests. In one test, T-cells (white cells) were stimulated with 2 chemicals that simulate infection response in the body. T-cells usually respond by multiplying when they come across this type of challenge, however, in the Iron deficient participants, the T-cell response was about 40 – 50% below that of the Iron sufficient participants. In another test, another type of white blood cell, a granulocyte, was challenged with bacteria, usually granulocytes ingest bacteria killing them with an oxidative burst. Participants Iron status did not affect the extent which the granulocytes ingested the bacteria, however, the strength of the oxidative burst was 28% lower in the Iron deficient participants suggesting that Iron deficiency may reduce the capacity of granulocytes to kill bacteria.
Another published study drew additional attention to the importance of Iron supplementation in the elderly. This study concluded Anemia, a condition caused by a deficiency in vitamins and minerals particularly Iron, Folic Acid, and B12, doubles the risks of serious physical declines in the elderly. Approximately 13% of older Americans are Anemic. This study also showed that individuals who do not yet have Anemia but whose blood levels show they are close to developing Anemia, are 1 ½ times more likely to develop physical declines than those who have normal blood hemoglobin levels.
Further studies are planned.
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