Scientists from the University of Leeds (UK) have found that children and young people who are overweight or obese are at a significantly higher risk of iron deficiency. This condition has a negative impact on attention, concentration and memory, and may also increase the risk of developing conditions such as autism and ADHD, Ednews informs via BMJ (British Medical Journal) Global Health.

During the study, scientists analyzed thousands of existing scientific papers on the relationship between obesity and iron deficiency in the body. Participants in the studies were children and adults under 25 years of age from different countries.

It turned out that obese and overweight children and young people had a significantly increased risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. This is a pathological condition characterized by a decrease in iron levels in the body, leading to a decrease in the concentration of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood. Iron deficiency can cause increased fatigue, and decreased memory and concentration. The study noted that anemia in children is a provocateur of autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

According to scientists, the lack of iron in the body of obese children may be due to poor nutrition. In particular, it can be caused by a diet rich in “empty” calories from fast food, consumption of sweets, chips and sugar-based drinks. Such food contains a lot of fats and carbohydrates, but few beneficial nutrients, including iron.