Published June 1, 2026
A recent article in The Globe and Mail explored an issue that affects millions of Canadians: iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.
The article, “Fatigue, Brain Fog and Lower-Than-Usual Energy Can Be Connected to Iron Deficiency,” was written by Leslie Beck, one of Canada’s most respected nutrition experts. Beck is a registered dietitian, author, and long-time nutrition columnist whose evidence-based health reporting has helped educate Canadians for decades.
In her article, Beck explains that symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, reduced exercise capacity, and low mood are often attributed to stress, poor sleep, or busy lifestyles. However, these symptoms can also be early signs of iron deficiency, particularly in women. According to Health Canada data cited in the article, approximately one in four women between the ages of 14 and 50 have low iron levels.
The article reviews:
- The important role iron plays in oxygen transport, energy production, cognition, and overall health
- The difference between iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia
- Common symptoms and risk factors
- Dietary strategies to improve iron intake and absorption
- Available treatment options for iron deficiency
When discussing oral iron supplementation, Beck notes that traditional ferrous iron salts can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. She also reviews newer iron formulations, including SiderAL® Sucrosomial Iron, highlighting its favorable gastrointestinal tolerability and absorption profile.
The article notes that sucrosomial iron is encapsulated in a way that reduces direct contact with the gastrointestinal tract, which may help explain its lower rate of digestive side effects. Beck also references evidence showing that sucrosomial iron can effectively improve hemoglobin levels in patients with mild to moderate iron deficiency anemia.
We are grateful to see growing awareness of iron deficiency and the importance of choosing an iron therapy that patients can tolerate and continue taking.
Read the full Globe and Mail article by Leslie Beck for a comprehensive discussion of iron deficiency, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.
