The Link Between Low Iron and Restless Leg
Ever feel like you have to move your legs at night—like there’s an itch you can’t scratch deep inside your muscles? That uncomfortable sensation, especially in the evening or when you’re trying to rest, might be a sign of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). And emerging research suggests your iron levels could be a key part of the puzzle.
Is There a Connection Between Iron and Restless Leg Syndrome?
Quite possibly. A 2024 study published in Annals of Neurology looked at whether low iron might be playing a role in people experiencing RLS—especially those with iron deficiency anemia.
Researchers took blood samples from two groups of people who all had anemia: one group with RLS and one without. Instead of just looking at standard iron levels, they took things a step further by examining tiny brain-cell-derived particles in the blood called neuron-derived extracellular vesicles. Think of these like little packages from brain cells that can give us insight into what’s happening in the brain without needing an MRI or biopsy.
Here’s what they found:
- People with RLS had lower levels of ferritin (a protein that stores iron) in these vesicles.
- They also had higher levels of transferrin, which is like the body’s iron delivery truck that works harder when iron is low.
In short: the brains of people with RLS seemed to be lacking iron. This study gives us a clearer biological link between iron deficiency and restless leg syndrome—especially when the deficiency is severe enough to cause anemia.
What Causes Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia can happen for many reasons, but dietary lack of iron is the most common. Other causes include chronic blood loss, certain gastrointestinal conditions, and pregnancy.
Here are some good sources of iron to consider:
- Red meat, poultry, fish, and eggs
- Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens
- Lentils, beans, and chickpeas
- Tofu, tempeh, and fortified cereals
Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C (like citrus, bell peppers, or strawberries) may also help boost absorption.
Final Thoughts
This study points to a powerful idea: low iron may show up in unexpected ways, like restless legs. If you’re experiencing those symptoms, it might be worth asking your healthcare provider about checking your iron levels. As always, talk to them before making any major changes to your diet or starting any supplementation.
