The effect of ferrous oral iron used in the treatment of iron deficiency on weight gain and appetite in adults: a prospective study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: AIM: iron preparations on weight, body composition, metabolic, and appetite parameters in adults undergoing treatment for iron deficiency. METHODS: iron therapy for iron deficiency within the last month at Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic, were included. Data on sociodemographic variables, health, dietary habits, anthropometric measurements, metabolic parameters, and appetite scores were collected. The Power of Food (PFS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ) were utilized for appetite assessment. FINDINGS: After three months of iron treatment, a statistically significant increase was found in the mean values of Hb, Hct, MCV, ferritin, iron, and transferrin saturation; anthropometric measurements displayed a significant reduction in body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat percentage, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist/hip circumference ratios post-treatment. Notably, VAS scores for certain food items decreased, while carbonated drinks VAS score increased. Appetite-related factors, as per PFS, exhibited a significant decrease in PFS factor 1 (food available), PFS factor 2 (food present). CONCLUSIONS: iron preparations positively influence the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia by improving haematological parameters and concurrently leading to a significant reduction in body weight, BMI, and appetite scores related to specific food items. The study underscores the multifaceted impact of iron supplementation on both physiological and behavioural aspects, providing valuable insights for optimizing iron deficiency anaemia management.
Institution: Hacettepe University
Language: English
Subfield: Hematology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,550
OpenAlex ID: W4414548990