Research Links Low Iron to Cognitive Challenges During Menopause

Recent research from the University of Oklahoma sheds light on the potential link between iron levels in women transitioning into menopause and their cognitive performance. This could offer relief for those grappling with brain fog and related symptoms.

Published in the journal Nutrients, the findings indicate that maintaining adequate iron levels in the blood during menopause correlates with improved cognitive task performance. Notably, sufficient blood iron didn't translate into elevated levels of iron in the brain—something previously associated with heightened risks for neurodegenerative conditions.

Dr. Michael Wenger, a psychology professor and lead author, pointed out, "When a woman transitions into menopause, she stops the monthly blood loss, which means she's not losing iron as before. Our aim was to investigate if the repercussions of iron deficiency diminish during this phase." This area of study has seen limited exploration until now.

The research team evaluated blood iron levels, conducted MRIs to examine brain iron deposits, and assessed cognitive performance. While none of the participants presented with iron deficiency, several had levels lower than expected for their demographics. Those with suboptimal blood iron levels significantly underperformed in memory, attention, and other cognitive assessments.

"Prior research has made it clear that iron deficiency significantly impairs cognitive function," Dr. Wenger added. "For instance, a simple task of pressing a button each time an asterisk appears on a screen could cost a woman with iron deficiency around 150 milliseconds. While that seems minor, such delays accumulate in everyday decision-making."

Interestingly, the study demonstrated that measuring iron levels in the blood does not predict iron accumulation in the brain. "For some time, we've known that iron buildup in the brain raises the risk for developing issues like Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia," Wenger noted. "This finding is optimistic because having iron levels within an expected range for one's age doesn’t imply increased brain iron."

It's vital to distinguish between low iron levels and anemia. Dr. Wenger clarified that while low iron can lead to anemia, there are myriad reasons one might be anemic. Additionally, it's common for women to visit their OB-GYN without undergoing tests for iron deficiency, signaling a potential gap in care.

"Low iron could very well be a reason behind the brain fog some women report during the menopausal transition," he explained. "It might also contribute to changes in eyesight, as iron plays a key role in dopamine synthesis—essential for proper retinal signaling."

While iron supplements can lead to gastrointestinal issues and aren't universally recommended, Dr. Wenger suggests that low-dose options, along with dietary adjustments to include more iron-rich foods, could be beneficial. "Taking these small steps might ease the transition for women moving from pre-menopause to post-menopause," he said.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the enrollment for the study was lower than desired, prompting the research team to seek funding for further, larger studies to validate these findings.

Dr. Pamela Miles, an OB-GYN and co-author of the study, voiced a common sentiment among healthcare professionals. "We've traditionally focused on post-menopausal health issues—like cardiovascular problems and osteoporosis—but our understanding of the menopausal transition has lagged, even though it's often more troublesome for patients."

Materials provided by University of Oklahoma. Original written by April Wilkerson. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

This Strange New Magnetism Could Change How Computers Work

Scientists Decode a 12,000-Year-Old Mystery Hidden in Ancient Spear Points

Switzerland’s Glaciers Lost More Than 5% of Their Ice in Just One Year

Scientists Tested This Tropical Fruit for Diabetes – and Found an Unexpected Blood Pressure Effect

Stay informed with ScienceDaily's free email newsletter, updated daily and weekly. Or view our many newsfeeds in your RSS reader:

Keep up to date with the latest news from ScienceDaily via social networks:

Tell us what you think of ScienceDaily -- we welcome both positive and negative comments. Have any problems using the site? Questions?