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Low Iron Linked to Increased Anxiety in Teen Girls

10/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Baylor College of Medicine links low iron stores to higher anxiety in 209 Texas teens using brain imaging and psychological testing.
Girls with low iron showed more anxiety and larger brain structures, with no depression link.
The findings imply iron deficiency may disrupt neural wiring, leading to emotional symptoms.
Addressing iron deficiency may help reduce anxiety in adolescent girls.

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Story summary

Baylor College of Medicine links low iron stores to higher anxiety in 209 Texas teens using brain imaging and psychological testing.
Girls with low iron showed more anxiety and larger brain structures, with no depression link.
The findings imply iron deficiency may disrupt neural wiring, leading to emotional symptoms.
Addressing iron deficiency may help reduce anxiety in adolescent girls.