Iron is a key mineral needed in a variety of physiological mechanisms, with complex mechanisms for homeostasis. Often dismissed as a marker of malnutrition or specific to patients prone to anaemia, we’ll explore the role of iron status beyond a basic nutritional marker.
In this comprehensive 3-part series, we review iron's role in metabolism, ageing, neurological health, detoxification, and GI function and microbiome balance. We’ll also discuss Functional approaches to assessment and personalised intervention strategies.
Lesson One
This session is the first of a series of 3 lectures and will set the foundation for understanding the systems-based approach to iron homeostasis. We’ll review the overlapping physiological mechanisms that both rely on iron balance and impact iron levels. These include metabolic health, mental health and cognition, immune function, detoxification capacity, GI function, microbiome balance and the liver-GI axis.
Lesson Two
This session focuses on assessment considerations for iron status. We’ll review signs and symptoms, advanced laboratory considerations, and explore case-based examples.
Lesson Three
The final session is where we apply what we’ve learned about iron physiology, homeostasis, and assessment to develop a comprehensive and highly personalised, functional medicine intervention plan. We’ll consider all aspects of lifestyle - including diet, environment, daily habits - as well as nutraceutical prescription in an effective strategy that goes beyond the standard strategy for more holistic and effective patient outcomes.
