#334: Iron Overload | More Common Than You Think - Fatigue, Low Testosterone, Joint Pain, Hair Loss, Gut Issues & More - What To Do About It With Christy Sutton
Today, I sit down with Dr. Christy Sutton, author of The Iron Curse and an expert whose personal journey through her husband’s long and confusing health saga opened her eyes to the often-missed danger of hereditary hemochromatosis. While most people worry about not getting enough iron, Dr. Sutton and I focus on what happens when you have too much—and how this silent, often undiagnosed condition can wreak havoc on organs, hormones, joints, and even mental health.
In our conversation, we unpack why iron overload is so frequently overlooked in the medical world, what early red flags to look for, and how your genetics and lifestyle intersect to determine your risk. Dr. Sutton breaks down the three key HFE genes, explains who’s most vulnerable, and shares practical steps you can take to both test for and manage high iron, from diet tweaks to supplement protocols.
We also explore the far-reaching impacts of excess iron—why it increases risks for everything from joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes to early aging and even dementia—and how seemingly simple interventions can make a world of difference. Plus, Dr. Sutton shares the fascinating connection between iron overload, red hair, and Irish ancestry, as well as the challenges of diagnosing this condition in children.
This episode is packed with insights and practical advice—whether you’re hearing about hemochromatosis for the first time, or searching for answers to chronic, unexplained symptoms. Join me for a conversation that just might help you—or someone you care about—connect the dots and take control of your long-term health.
Learn more from Christy Sutton below:
What We discuss:
Meet Dr. Christy Sutton and Her Personal Story ... 00:06:00
Introduction to Dr. Sutton, her book "The Iron Curse," and her husband’s challenging journey to a proper diagnosis.
Hemochromatosis: Genetics, Diagnosis, and Mistreatment ... 00:11:00
Breakdown of key HFE genes, misdiagnoses, ignored lab markers, and differences between hereditary and non-hereditary cases.
Multi-Organ Impact of Iron Overload ... 00:33:00
Excess iron and its role in liver disease, joint damage, cognitive decline, hormonal dysfunction, and more.
Childhood Hemochromatosis and Clinical Blind Spots ... 00:37:00
A five-year-old’s story reveals difficulties in pediatric diagnosis and innovative, non-blood-removal strategies.
Symptoms, Infections, and Iron ... 00:47:00
Systemic issues like joint pain, anxiety, dementia, and heightened risk of deadly infections.
Managing and Lowering Iron Levels ... 01:01:00
Practical approaches—diet, supplements like curcumin and quercetin, and why standard blood removal isn’t enough for all.
Genetic Roots: Red Hair, Irish Heritage, and Family Risk ... 01:09:00
Hemochromatosis prevalence in Irish descent, celiac connection, and advice on who should get tested.
Key Takeaways and Resources ... 01:17:00
Screening recommendations, where to find Dr. Sutton’s work, and closing comments for listeners.
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