How can low iron stores impact cognitive function in women nearing menopause?

Question

Accepted Answer

Emerging research suggests a link between lower iron stores and diminished cognitive performance in women undergoing the menopausal transition.

Preliminary findings indicate that better iron status may be associated with enhanced cognitive capabilities, including improved accuracy, superior discrimination abilities, and quicker response times, even in women who are not anaemic. This research underscores the potential significance of iron levels for cognitive health during perimenopause, a period often accompanied by symptoms like brain fog.
Association Between Iron Status and Cognitive Performance

A 2025 study published in the journal Nutrients specifically investigated non-anaemic women in the menopausal transition. The researchers observed a correlation where individuals with a better iron status exhibited stronger cognitive performance. This included measurable improvements in aspects such as accuracy, the ability to discriminate between stimuli, and the speed at which they responded.
Preliminary Nature of Findings

It is crucial to note that the study's findings are considered preliminary. The researchers themselves emphasised the need for larger, more extensive, and longer-term studies to definitively establish and understand this relationship. Therefore, while the initial results are suggestive, they require further validation to draw firm conclusions.
Importance for Perimenopausal Women

Despite the preliminary nature of the research, these findings highlight a potentially important area of investigation for women experiencing cognitive changes during perimenopause. The research points to the value of considering iron status as a contributing factor to brain fog, even in the absence of a formal anaemia diagnosis. This suggests that exploring iron levels could offer insights for women experiencing these specific symptoms.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How can low iron stores impact cognitive function in women nearing menopause?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends