Is It Perimenopause or Iron? Understanding Midlife Fatigue and Low Ferritin

Most women in their 40s are told their fatigue, brain fog, and low energy are “just hormones,” but iron deficiency is often the missing piece. In this episode, we explain why iron status plays a critical role in energy, focus, and overall performance in midlife. Family physician DR. TASH MIRANDO joins us to unpack how iron functions as the body’s oxygen transport system, why low ferritin can look like perimenopause, and how to interpret blood tests beyond “normal” ranges. We discuss when nutrition and supplements are enough, when medical treatment is appropriate, and how to build sustainable habits that support long-term health and vitality. --------- CHAPTERS 00:00 – Episode Snippet 00:55 – Introducing our guest, Dr. Tash Mirando 07:10 – “Normal” vs optimal iron levels 13:20 – Iron, thyroid, and common deficiencies 19:00 – The six pillars of lifestyle medicine 20:42 – Sponsor Break: Cozy Earth 21:40 - Fuel Your Forties: Heme vs non-heme iron and absorption 25:17 – What blocks iron absorption 37:54 – Sponsor Break: Love, Indus 41:20 – Hot or Hype with Dr. Tash 53:45 – The 40s Formula: Listen, Investigate, Optimize 🎙️ ABOUT OUR GUEST DR. TASH MIRANDO is a family physician who helps women understand iron deficiency, fatigue, and low energy in midlife. We explore how iron affects oxygen delivery, why low ferritin can mimic perimenopause symptoms, and how to make sense of blood test results. Connect with Dr. Tash: @dr.tash.mirando 👩‍❤️‍👩 ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Jasmin Dhillon (@eat.with.jasmin) is an Integrated Health Strategist dedicated to helping women navigate their wellness journey with clarity. Amanda Lim (@coachamandalim) is a certified Women’s Health Coach and nutritionist passionate about strength and vitality. Together, they are the voices behind The Forties Formula, your destination for unfiltered conversations about thriving in your 40s and beyond. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: 🥩 The Meat Club – Get $20 off with code TFF20 🛏️ Cozy Earth – Sleep comfortably with soft bamboo sheets and cozy pajamas. Use code TFF for 41% off. Free shipping in Singapore over $560 and in the US over $50. ❤️ Love, Indus: Get 21% off luxury skincare with code TFF ______________ Stay Connected: 📩 Join our mailing list for exclusive content, our weekly Forty Tude newsletter, expert tips, and early access to giveaways! 📘Free Guide — The Forties Formula Ebook: Your simple, honest guide to what’s changing in your 40s — hormones, cravings, energy, strength and more.