Optimal - The Podcast: Episode 23

Optimal - The Podcast: Episode 23 - Unlocking the Mysteries of Iron Metabolism

Dr. Dicken Weatherby & Beth Ellen DiLuglio, MS, RDN, LDN

Welcome to Episode 23 of Optimal - the Podcast! In this episode, we are going to discuss iron metabolism.

We will discuss the high proportion of questions related to iron metabolism. We will also touch on iron physiology, including the role of hepcidin in regulating iron absorption, the impact of chronic inflammatory states on hepcidin expression, and the effect of gastric acid on iron absorption. The importance of balancing iron levels will also be discussed to avoid both deficiency anemia and iron overload. Free iron can cause oxidative stress, so proper binding is necessary during transport. Furthermore, we will explore biomarkers for iron levels and the absorption and utilization of iron in the body.

In addition, we mention that iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent nutrient deficiency, and we discuss the importance of accurately assessing it, including its symptoms. Lastly, emphasize the need for regular screening to detect iron deficiency at earlier stages before more severe complications arise.

Join us in this episode, where we unravel the mysteries of iron metabolism. Don't miss out on valuable insights – hit play now and optimize your knowledge of iron health!

Episode Highlights:

• (01:39) A deep dive into iron metabolism
• (02:44) Understanding how iron moves through the body
• (04:10) About peptide hormone called hepcidin
• (05:09) Another aspect is gastric acid
• (07:33) Anemia of chronic disease
• (12:36) Iron deficiency anemia
• (19:01) Dopamine as the main neurotransmitter of the motivational component of reward and reinforcement
• (20:46) Why we do Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis
• (24:40) Diabetes and other endocrine glands
• (27:20) The signs and symptoms of inherited iron overload
• (28:57) Iron biomarkers
• (32:36) What happens in iron deficiency anemia
• (35:12) How to address an altered iron status
• (40:20) Specific proteins that can inhibit the absorption of iron

ODX’s Iron Metabolism Series

1. Iron Metabolism Part 1 - Introduction to Iron Metabolism
2. Iron Metabolism Part 2 - The physiology of iron
3. Iron Metabolism Part 3 - Disorders associated with altered iron status: Iron Deficiency Anemia
4. Iron Metabolism Part 4 - Disorders associated with altered iron status: Iron Overload
5. Iron Metabolism Part 5 - Biomarkers of iron status
6. Iron Metabolism Part 6 - Addressing disorders associated with altered Iron status
7. Iron Metabolism Part 7 - ODX Optimal Takeaways and References

Where to Reach Dr. Dicken Weatherby

Dicken Weatherby LinkedIn
Optimal DX Resource Center
Optimal DX Blog

Where to Reach Beth Ellen DiLuglio

Nutrition Mission
Beth Ellen DiLuglio LinkedIn 

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