Iron is more than a figure on a blood work report—it's the foundation of a woman's energy. From the moment menstruation begins to the final stages of menopause, a woman's need for iron isn't fixed; it varies, develops, and becomes even more essential. Underestimated and underappreciated, iron is not only vital for maintaining healthy blood but also for making energy, keeping the mind functioning, supporting the immune system, regulating hormones, and maintaining good moods. As women progress through the different hormonal stages of life, fluctuating iron levels can deeply impact their quality of life, making this mineral a non-negotiable part of lifelong health planning.Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency on earth, and it disproportionately affects women. An estimated 38% of pregnant women and 29% of non-pregnant women around the world suffer from anaemia—most frequently resulting from iron deficiency. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) peaks in reproductive ages, pregnancy, and early motherhood.This is due primarily to menstruation, in which repeated monthly blood loss drains iron stores, and augmented further in instances of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), present in as many as one-third of menstruating women. Iron is still important even after menopause, although for other purposes—maintaining immunity, intellect, and metabolism in the absence of monthly loss.Menstrual YearsMenstruation makes women aware of their life-long connection with iron. Every menstrual cycle, women lose approximately 30–40 millilitres of blood, which amounts to about 15–20 milligrams of iron. In individuals suffering from HMB, frequently due to fibroids, PCOS, or endometriosis—or for whom no cause is identified—the loss of iron is even greater. Unless replenished by a diet rich in iron or by supplements, the loss can cause fatigue, impaired concentration, pallor, and compromised immunity—typical manifestations of IDA.Actually, iron lost during menstruation is in the form of haem iron, which is more bioavailable than non-haem iron from plant foods. Nevertheless, regular dietary intake is necessary.Pregnancy and Postpartum RecoveryWhile pregnant, a woman's blood supply is increased by almost 50% to supply the developing fetus, placenta, and maternal tissues. This increase drastically elevates the requirement for iron. A deficiency here not only poses a risk to the mother but can influence fetal brain development, birth weight, and preterm delivery risk.Postpartum, iron is still important. Between delivery blood loss and the iron requirements of lactation, most new mothers are struggling with fatigue and low immunity—not only from sleepless nights but because their iron stores haven't been replenished.MenopauseMost think that postmenopause, iron is obsolete. Although the monthly blood loss ends, the body continues to need iron for metabolic processes, production of red blood cells, and immune system protection. Further, iron serves to fight off age-related muscle loss and for brain health—two of postmenopausal women's top concerns.As per Shimpli Patil, Head Nutritionist & Lifestyle Expert, "Even without periods, iron is still essential for vitality, immunity, and brain health. Low iron levels are common in many women not only because of diet but also because of poor gut health and ongoing stress." It's a myth that simply consuming more iron does the trick. The fact is that iron uptake is a multifaceted process, which depends on gut health, stress, and the availability of inhibitors like calcium, tea, and coffee."Many women nowadays are suffering from low iron not just because of nutritional deficiencies but also compromised absorption," Patil says. "So, it's not merely about consuming more iron but making sure the body is indeed absorbing it."Foods That Naturally Boost Iron LevelsPatil advises a combination of traditional and contemporary nutrition to sustain iron levels:Garden cress seeds (Halim/Aliv): Small but mighty, particularly when soaked overnight and eaten with lemon juice for maximum uptake.Moringa leaves: Packed with plant iron and antioxidants.Dark leafy greens: Spinach, amaranth, dill, and colocasia.Broccoli: Both high in iron and Vitamin C.Pumpkin and sesame seeds: Convenient snack ingredients with a mighty iron kick.Wheatgrass: Rich in "green hemoglobin."Dried fruits: Dates, raisins, and figs make excellent instant iron boosters.Organ meats: Especially liver, when obtained responsibly.Tips to Maximize Iron IntakeTo make the most of your iron-rich foods:Always combine iron sources with Vitamin C (consider: lemon juice, oranges, amla) to maximize absorption.Avoid tea, coffee, and milk an hour before or after an iron-rich meal to avoid interference with absorption.Consider supplements if you are at high risk or have a diagnosed deficiency, under medical guidance.Why Iron Count Is About More Than Numbers?"Iron isn't only about lab tests. It's about energy, clarity, healthy hair, radiant skin, and bouncing back," states Patil. "Healing occurs when we feed with simple, seasonal foods, and care for the gut."Women need to be in charge of their iron requirements at all stages—by tuning into their bodies, seeing experts, and making informed food choices. And for goodness' sake, iron isn't all about blood—it's the building block of life and health for every woman.Ms Shimpli Patil is the Head Nutritionist & Lifestyle Expert at Luke Coutinho Holistic Healing Systems (LCHHS) in India