Iron Deficiency

The People’s Pharmacy, a column in the LA times by Joe and Teresa Graedon, has a story out on a possible link between iron supplements and restless leg syndrome (RLS). RLS seems to be affecting an increasing number of people, sometimes leading to extreme discomfort and sleep problems.

Here’s the meat of the article:

“For a long time I had trouble keeping my legs still, especially while I was trying to sleep at night. I did not seek treatment from my doctor because I did not want to take medication.

Then I read an article that said one of the health conditions causing this was an iron deficiency. My cousin told me she was taking iron twice a day, and it helped ease her restless legs.

I tried a few iron pills, and I could tell a difference within two days. I am grateful for such an easy remedy.

Iron deficiency has been linked to restless leg syndrome. Correcting this mineral deficiency may help ease the symptoms (Geriatrics, October 2007).

Sounds interesting, but it seems to be just anecdotal evidence. The reference they cite seems to require a subscription, which I don’t have. If anyone has information on a possible link between iron and restless leg syndrome, please let us know in the comment form.