best iron patches for anemia


anemia sickle patches cell You may be able to reduce this risk by selecting certain forms of iron, such as iron bisglycinate (which is gentle on your stomach) or taking iron supplements with food. She recommended these patches. Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.Iron: fact sheet for health professionals. My blood level is increasing with every blood test that I take! It is, but what I didnt realize was that it would drastically lower my blood pressure and that it acts on hormones increasing estrogen and reducing testosterone. Country Life recommends taking the pill with food, and we recommend pairing it with a vitamin C-rich food or drink (like orange juice) for enhanced absorption. 2017; 27(5) 493-498. Anyone with a medical condition should seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Iron: fact sheet for consumers. patches sickle anemia cell puck 2018; 14(4): 261-268. If you dony have problems with blood pressure or hormone levels, this patch may work well for you. However, the ingredient list is extensive and includes herbs. How soon after taking iron supplements will I feel better? folic b12 anemia ceregumil cyanocobalamin Another PatchAid difference is the value we deliver to our customers. Iron supplements may cause constipation, especially when taken in higher doses of at least 45 milligrams per day. I went searching for another delivery system, suspecting that my body was failing to absorb the iron through the GI process and found PatchMD. This option may reduce stomach discomfort while still effectively correcting the deficiency. 2018; 155(2) 374-382.

Went regularly to the cardiologist who tried meds, but it didnt work and caused some side effects. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products.

If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Use code PATCHME for $10 Patches * or $10 Subscriptions no code needed |Free Shipping over $59*(Promotion Terms), Subscribe and Save for $10 Subscription Orders **, Price - $29.95 $19.95 available on subscription from $10.00 / month, Iron Plus contains Iron Bisglycinate, a non-constipating, well-absorbed form of iron. Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. For example, iron supplements are often recommended in pregnancy and infancy in very different doses. Form: Capsule | Type: Ferrochel ferrous bisglycinate | Dose: 25 mg | Recommended Use: Once daily (if possible, with food) | Third-Party Certified: Yes. PatchAid vitamin patches are Latex, Lactose, Gluten, and Sugar-free. According to the National Institutes of Health, the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for iron are as follows: Note that iron needs for females are higher during menstruating years due to iron loss in blood. The patch technology really works, I just wish the supplements were more straight forward. I will definitely be continuing with the Iron Plus patches. Some people struggle to take their prescribed iron supplements each day because they experience stomach discomfort. Tamar Kane, MS, RD is a registered dietitian and marathon runner. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Iron: fact sheet for health professionals. Got it quick, seems easy to apply. My levels were within completely normal range. At the time I was deficient in many vitamins and minerals, including Iron, B12, B6, B1, B2, Folate, Vitamin D and Zinc. As I result I began using many of the patches. It is best to get your iron from food, as food provides additional benefits such as energy, fiber, other nutrients, and it is unlikely to overload on iron from food sources. BariatricPal Portable Protein Mixer, Blender, and Whipper - Available in 2 Colors! For that reason, the instructions for use with this supplement recommend taking it with water and a meal, which will be gentle on your stomach. Your healthcare provider will recommend an appropriate dose for you. Clean and dry the skin. VegLife's Vegan Iron Chewable Tablets provide 18 milligrams of iron as iron glycerinate. I started seeing a Functional Medicine doctor who saw my bloodwork and thought my iron wasnt dangerously low, but low enough to potentially be causing my symptoms. From birth until 13 years, the UL is 40 milligrams. A systematic review and meta analysis. Iron: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. The 7 Best Iron Supplements of 2022, According to a Dietitian. When finished, remove the patch, fold in half, and discard. While some groups benefit from B12 and folate supplementation, less is known about L-histidine supplementation. Hmm. It is NSF Certified for Sport, which means it undergoes NSF certified testing (verifying contents and ensuring only safe levels of contaminants), as well as additional athlete-specific testing to ensure there are no prohibited substances or masking agents. I have leaky gut syndrome from years of overeating and indulging in binge eating sessions. The following types of people may benefit from taking an iron supplement: If you get enough iron from your diet and do not have a confirmed deficiency or increased need, you should not use iron supplements, as there is risk of toxicity. Our customers LOVE our topical vitamin patches for the ease of use and amazing RESULTS as shown from their bloodwork and testimonials. A more severe iron deficiency may progress to iron deficiency anemia, which can lead to more serious symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, and heart problems. I have so much more energy and dont feel as foggy.

I am convinced that patches are the way to go. Vitamin B12 Intake From Animal Foods, Biomarkers, and Health Aspects, Ferrous versus ferric oral iron formulations for the treatment of iron deficiency: a clinical overview, Towards gender-affirming nutrition assessment: a case series of adult transgender men with distinct nutrition considerations, Treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults. Your dosage will also depend on the severity of your iron deficiency, such as a mild deficiency or iron deficiency anemia. The ferrous sulfate form of iron is more affordable and well-absorbed but more likely to cause stomach discomfort. My ferritin is still very low (6), but it should come up as my levels normalize. The dose may not be adequate for those with iron deficiency or anemia, so consult with your healthcare provider. After 30 days of using the IronPlus patches, on Saturday they found my iron levels to be normal and I donated for the first time in my life! National Center for Biotechnology Information. C, Beta Carotene and Astaxanthin are added for enhanced absorbtion.*. A systematic review and meta analysis. Vegans and some vegetarians need to supplement with B12, so check with your healthcare provider to see if this supplement may be able to also serve as your B12 supplement. Garden of Life mykind Organics Plant Iron & Organic Herbs contains iron from an organic food blend, along with vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6. Please discuss all ingredients with your healthcare provider before beginning this supplement. Iron: fact sheet for health professionals. Tamar has her master's degree in nutrition and exercise physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University. Learn more about In: UpToDate, Mentzer W, Means RT, Tirnauer JS, Kunins L (Eds), UpToDate. They also may contain other vitamins, minerals, and herbs as well as flavors, colors, and preservatives. Its facilities are CGMP certified, which ensures they are compliant with the FDA's Current Good Manufacturing Practices that regulate the way in which products are produced and standardized. This higher amount may be necessary if you have a deficiency but should be used under a healthcare provider's recommendation and supervision. So, get yourself to a Functional Med MD if you have chronic health issues that havent been adequately addressed, and if they suggest these patches GET THEM! Houston BL, Hurrie D, Graham J, Perija B, Rimmer E, Rabbani R et al. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best Your email address will not be published.

Coates A, Mountjoy M, Burr J. Bundles and already-discounted items may not be eligible for discount. 2018; 118(11):2162-2173. i use these patches daily on my chest and they are a godsend! As with any nutritional supplements, consumers should use nutrition patches according to their healthcare providers' recommendations and regularly monitor nutrient levels through lab work as they would when taking any dietary supplements. Incidence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in elite runners and triathletes. I have been anemic for over 10 years. You will also want to be wary of taking an iron supplement if you: Form of iron is easily absorbed and gentle on the stomach. 2010; 91(5):1461S-7S. Taking it with food can make it even more comfortable on the belly. I have had issues for the last few years and these patches have been so helpful. We like that Thorne Iron Bisglycinate checks so many boxes in our methodology, making it a trusted option.Thornes supplementmay bean especiallygreat choice for athletes who have been diagnosed with a mild deficiency. This liquid supplement contains 10 milligrams of iron, which is up to 55% of the daily value. Im so excited. Each Thorne capsule contains 25 milligrams of iron bisglycinate, a form of iron that is readily absorbed and typically does not result in gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and constipation. This supplement is certified organic, gluten-free, and vegan and may be more palatable than other liquid options. Form: Tablet | Type: Ferrous sulfate | Dose: 65 mg | Recommended Use: Once daily with water and a meal | Third-Party Certified: Yes, Contains B12, which many people need to supplement. Some exceptions may apply. Shaker Bottle with Whisk Ball Blender by BariatricPal, BariatricPal Translucent Portion Bowl (Gift), BariatricPal Portion Control Travel Utensil Set with Case - Includes Fork, Spoon & Knife, BariatricPal Soft Touch Round Lip Balm (Gift), Round Locking Travel Pill Organizer by BariatricPal, Bariatric Patient Restaurant Special Menu Request Card 2.0 (Gift).

It is also important to take iron supplements separately from calcium, tea, zinc, and antacids, as these items can inhibit absorption. 2017; 4(11):e524-e533. Santiago P. Ferrous versus ferric oral iron formulations for the treatment of iron deficiency: a clinical overview.ScientificWorldJournal. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, iron needs differ for infants and for people who are pregnant and lactating. Zaher's Iron Complex is also certified kosher, non-GMO, and free from gluten, dairy, and soy. If you dislike swallowing pills, you may prefer taking your iron supplements in chewable form.

I ordered the patches today and couldnt be more thrilled that they are on the way! National Institutes of Health. Ive been using them for about three months and the PVCs scaled back week by week until they ultimately stopped! When deciding which iron supplement is best for you, consider appropriate dose, budget, ingredients, and the form of iron that will be absorbed well but not cause you gastrointestinal discomfort. There are many reasons for iron deficiency. A month ago, after taking pills for 30 days, I tried to donate and was refused for low iron levels. Auerbach M. Treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults. You can take this supplement for iron in your vegan or vegetarian diet, and it is also non-GMO certified. We are so sure you will agree that our product is the best on the market that we are more than happy to return your order within 30 days for a 100% refund. Melissa Ray (verified owner) July 20, 2020. Our patches come with clear backing for a clear reason: it works. With that came the energy I was used to having as the B12 and Iron deficiency left me depressed, lethargic, lacking motivation, sleepless at times while sleeping all the time at times. I have been super low for so many years I can hardly believe it!! European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology. Patches can be worn during sleep. 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. For those 14 years and older, it is 45 milligrams. We prioritize products that are third-party tested and certified by one of three independent, third party certifiers: USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.. Adhere the patch to your skin, pressing firmly. Keep in mind that iron supplements should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider. Zahler's contains 25 milligrams of iron bisglycinate (that's the stomach-friendly form we've been talking about) and 60 milligrams f vitamin C to aid in absorption. We see the human body as the complex, interactive system that it is, with ever-changing components that affect each other. Meredith Bull, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a private practice in Los Angeles. Iron supplements are less effective if you do not take the supplement as prescribed. Thank you PatchMD! PatchAid Iron offers: At PatchAid, we support total health. There are 180 tablets per bottle, making the cost just a few cents per pill. Johns Hopkins Hospital.Iron-deficiency anemia. NOW's supplements contain only 18 milligrams of iron. 2012; 24(2):109-116. As a person who has battled anemia my entire life, Im SO glad to finally have normal iron. NSF International Certified for Sport. In the U.S., 1 out of 8 women of reproductive age is deficient. National Institutes of Health. Required fields are marked *. Iron deficiency anemia: a review of diagnosis, investigation and management. Copyright 2020 PatchMD.com. To help alleviate constipation, incorporate adequate dietary fiber, fluids, and daily movement. Marra MV, Bailey RL. Having recently tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, I badly wanted to donate plasma. Fiber recommendations for the average adult range from approximately 25 to 35 grams per day.When increasing fiber in your diet, make sure to go gradually and ensure that you are spreading it out throughout the day for optimal tolerance." I dont feel as tired and I am not complaining of being cold all the time. The Lancet Haematology. Easy Iron is also certified gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMOand the company is a certified B corporation that uses renewable energy in their manufacturing practices. She helped co-author the first integrative geriatrics textbook, "Integrative Geriatric Medicine.". We understand how stressful swallowing pills can be, so we wanted to give you a liquid iron supplement option.

There is no additional benefit wearing the patch longer than 8 hours. Finally my doctor set up regular infusions. Liu K, Kaffes AJ. Have trouble with Iron supplements. For a more affordable, higher-dose option, consider Nature Made (view at Amazon). As someone already on oral contraceptives, this was a no-no. Sign me up for a subscription, and HUGE THANKS, PATCHMD! Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. In addition to iron, some supplements may contain vitamin C to aid in absorption. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine.

Ems T, St Lucia K, Huecker MR. Biochemistry, iron absorption. I even tried liquid iron that made me so sick. Often, this is not enough to correct a more severe deficiency, so check with your healthcare provider to see if this supplement might be a good fit for your needs. I researched the Astaxanthin before I bought the patches and it seems like a good, safe antioxidant. Avoid using any lotion or cream in the same area as it will inhibit absorption. In our product list below, we call out options that are known to be gentle on the stomach.

In the past decade, Ive had neuropathy symptoms that seemed to be linked to iron deficiency, but again, pills and diet never improved the symptoms. The patch will stick better if you choose an area of skin without hair, lotion, or oil residue. Her goal is to help people understand how to properly fuel their bodies (and supplement, if needed!) Form: Capsule | Type: Ferrous bisglycinate | Dose: 18 mg | Recommended Use: Once daily with food | Third-Party Certified: Yes, USP certified; ConsumerLab tested and approved, Contains ferrous sulfate, which is absorbed well. Form: Capsule | Type: Iron bisglycinate | Dose: 25 mg | Recommended Use: Once daily | Third-Party Certified: Yes, Lower dose of iron may not correct deficiency. kishmid (verified owner) December 13, 2020. The Iron Plus Vitamin Patch by PatchAid is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Read our, Who May Not Benefit From an Iron Supplement, Best GI Friendly: Thought a patch would avoid the problem since I would not be taking it orally. Name JJ, Vasconcelos AR, Valzachi Rocha Maluf MC. Tamar is a former combat fitness instructor in the Israel Defense Forces. 2012;2012:846824. doi:10.1100/2012/846824. Is iron treatment beneficial in iron-deficient but non-anemic (IDNA) endurance athletes? 2015; 49(21):1389-1397. The amount of elemental iron (the amount of iron the body can absorb) is listed on the product's supplement facts panel. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Your healthcare provider will recommend an appropriate dose based on your needs. Hurrell R, Egli I. Im sold, and Im trying out the B12 Plus and Vitamin C next. Aim for at least 2 liters of water daily. Efficacy of iron supplementation on fatigue and physical capacity in non-anaemic iron-deficient adults: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Ive struggled with heart palpitations for years (PVCs). * These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Ive had to get transfusions, Ive take supplements for years with only a mild increase in iron and ferritin levels. Iron absorption from oral supplements given on consecutive versus alternate days and as single morning doses versus twice-daily split dosing in iron-depleted women: two open-label, randomised controlled trials. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Apply patch daily to an area with little or no hair, i.e., shoulder, back or hip. As an added benefit, Thorne's capsules are also free from gluten, dairy, and soy. We included Zahler's Iron Complex in our top picks because it contains vitamin C (which some studies show may help enhance absorption of nonheme iron) and vitamin B12 (which people with poor absorption or low intake of animal products need to supplement). If you cannot tolerate oral iron treatments, you may be prescribed iron supplementation through an IV for a period of time. This dose may not be high enough to correct a deficiency. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. NOPE absorbs well into your system and causes the exact same side effects. Pleasesee ourFrequently Asked Questionsfor answers to commonly asked questions about our PatchAid vitamin patches. Other brands come with a white paper backing that can stick to the patch and damage the patch when you try to peel off the backing. Transgender individuals ages 14-50 should work with their healthcare provider to assess iron needs, which will vary based on menstruation status and other variables. Antioxidants that can maintain cell integrity. Supplemental iron comes in various forms, including capsules, liquid, chewable tablets, and gummies. Burden RJ, Morton K, Richards T, Whyte GP, Pedlar CR. Low and behold, when I went to get my first infusion, they took samples to test and the results showed my iron was NORMAL! If you have a diagnosed iron deficiency, especially one that is severe, your healthcare provider will likely recommend a higher dose supplement. Thank you, Patch MD! Wow. Tamar is a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist with Masters in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology.Tamar is the founder of Tamar Kane Nutrition, a nutrition practice that supports athletes. Repeated high dose supplementation can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and, over time, can result in damage to the liver or brain. I was having shortness of breath, dizziness, and felt like some days I couldnt even get off the floor. They are sugar free and suitable for vegans. Found in animal foods such as poultry, seafood, meat, Found in plant foods, including nuts, beans, vegetables and iron-fortified foods, Pairing non-heme sources with vitamin C rich foods or heme sources can increase absorption.. Typically, it comes as ferrous or ferric iron salts. Be sure to read the entire list and show it to your healthcare provider to check for allergens and potential interactions with your other medications or supplements. Auerbach M. Treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults. I have been using the Iron Plus patch for 3 weeks, and I am loving the fact that I only have to apply them once a day. The Nutrition Source: Iron. Our patches come with a clearbackingdesigned specifically to make sure every patch is usable, every time. This supplement is made entirely from whole food ingredients. Obeid R, Heil SG, Verhoeven MMA, van den Heuvel EGHM, de Groot LCPGM, Eussen SJPM. Despite taking vitamin supplements orally my nutritional status has not remained constant. I cant wait until they are back to normal levels. PatchMD products are Latex, Lactose., Gluten and Sugar-free, ALL PATCH ORDERS INCLUDE 30 PATCHES (30-DAY SUPPLY) and 100% Moneyback Guarantee. As with any nutritional supplements, consumers should use nutrition patches according to their healthcare providers' recommendations and regularly monitor nutrient levels through lab work as they would when taking any dietary supplements. While Zahler's iron supplement is not third-party tested, its products are produced in a CGMP-certified facility. Efficacy of iron supplementation on fatigue and physical capacity in non-anaemic iron-deficient adults: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Ferrous iron in supplements is more readily absorbed than ferric iron. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. I work closely with a holistic doctor who several years ago suggested trying the PatchMD vitamin patches. UpToDate. The iron in these patches absorbs well ( I did still experience moderate constipation) but I had to discontinue use of these patches after 10 days because of the side effects from the Astaxanthin. to optimize performance and well-being. There is no additional benefit wearing the patch longer than 8 hours. Iron bioavailability and dietary reference values. Form: Capsule | Type: Iron bisglycinate | Dose: 25 mg iron bisglycinate, 60 mg vitamin C, 400 mcg folate, 80 mcg vitamin B12, 100 mcg L-histidine | Recommended Use: Once daily with food | Third-Party Certified: No, Amount of iron may not correct deficiency. VegLife Vegan Iron Chewable Tablets, The 6 Best Fiber Supplements of 2022, According to a Dietitian. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for iron refers to the maximum daily amount that can be safely taken. Unless a deficiency is being treated, no more than 45 milligrams should be taken to avoid harmful side effects and iron overload. All patches are free of Artificial Dyes, Casein, Corn, Colors, Dairy, Egg, Fillers, Flavorings, Gluten, GMOs, Latex, MSG, Peanuts, Preservatives, Shellfish, Soy, Sugar, Tree Nuts and Wheat. Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. Supplements that are third-party tested are sent to a lab where they are tested to ensure they contain what they say they contain and are not contaminated with specific high-risk, common contaminants. One code use per order; two code uses per customer (across two separate orders). These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. As with any dietary supplement, please consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Be sure to review all ingredients to ensure the supplement meets your individual needs. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: micronutrient supplementation. Ive tried to donate blood throughout my life and never was able to because iron was too low. Arielle Leben, RD. For best results, it is recommended to wear PatchMD patches for 8 hours. She specializes in working with plant-based athletes, one of the populations at highest risk for iron deficiency. You might also consider using a stool softener. This is a great way to get iron without the GI problems. Vitamin B12 Intake From Animal Foods, Biomarkers, and Health Aspects.Front Nutr. They would come and go but then had gotten so bad that they would continue on every few beats all throughout the day and night for weeks without stopping. Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. One of the ICU RNs at work told me about PatchMD so I checked it out and ordered 2 months worth.I started using the Iron Plus and the Vitamin D patch. Form: Tablet | Type: Ferrous fumarate | Dose: 18 mg | Recommended Use: One chewable once daily | Third-Party Certified: Yes. Been wearing these patches daily for about 4 months now along with the multi-vitamin patches and I just had my labs drawn and I am low NORMAL on iron. I no longer have to deal with anemia and deficiencies. Stoffel NU, Cercamondi CI, Bittenham G, Zeder C, Geurts-Moespot AJ, Swinkels DW et al. Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and astaxanthin support iron absorption. The 5 Best Calcium Supplements, According to a Dietitian, The 5 Best Zinc Supplements, According to a Dietitian, The 7 Best Collagen Supplements, According to a Dietitian, The Best Melatonin Supplements Approved by a Dietitian, Iron: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions, The 8 Best Collagen Powders of 2022, According to a Dietitian, Vitamin C: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions, The Best Fiber Supplements of 2022, According to a Dietitian, How Eating Foods Rich in Iron May Prevent a Deficiency. Certain forms of iron may have fewer digestive effects than others. However, its important to note: As there is no single agency responsible for testing supplements, it is also possible that iron supplements do not contain the amount of iron listed on the label. Portion Control Bento Lunch Box, Storage Container & Plate by BariatricPal - Collapsible, Leak-Proof & Available in 2 Colors! Mahadev S, Laszkowska M, Sundstrm J, Bjrkholm M, Lebwohl B, Green PHR et al. VegLife's Vegan Chewable Tablets contain 18 milligrams of iron, the daily requirement for premenopausal women. Iron absorption from oral supplements given on consecutive versus alternate days and as single morning doses versus twice-daily split dosing in iron-depleted women: two open-label, randomised controlled trials. You can see this holistic philosophy reflected in our patches when you see thatPatchAid patches contain more nutrients per patch than other brands. Individual results may vary. This supplement also contains 100% of your daily value of folate, 3,000% of your daily value of B12, and the amino acid L-histidine. Prevalence of celiac disease in patients with iron deficiency anemia - A systematic review with meta-analysis. Getting the right amount of iron is important, as too little or too much can be dangerous. Prevalence of celiac disease in patients with iron deficiency anemia - A systematic review with meta-analysis. 25% OFF BariatricPal brand + 15% OFF all other brands* (Code: SUMMER22), "6 Daily" Meal Plan for Steady Weight Loss, May protect cells against damage from free radicals.*. Taking over 20 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can lead to gastric upset, constipation, vomiting, and faintness. Linsenmeyer, W., Drallmeier, T. & Thomure, M. Towards gender-affirming nutrition assessment: a case series of adult transgender men with distinct nutrition considerations.Nutr J19,74 (2020). Country Life's Easy Iron is certified vegan by the American Vegetarian Association. I have been short of breath and fatigued for the last several months. However, you will likely need an iron supplement if you are pregnant, at high risk of iron deficiency due to a health condition or limited diet, or if a healthcare professional confirms you have an iron deficiency, which may cause symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a weakened immune system.