What causes low iron saturation?

Some causes of low iron saturation include chronic iron deficiency, uremia, nephrotic syndrome and extensive cancer, according to Medscape. Dietary causes of low iron deficiency include not incorporating enough foods containing iron into the diet, notes Mayo Clinic.

There are several ways people can experience low transferrin saturation because of or despite their diet containing low iron saturation:

• Someone who suffers from celiac disease risks damaging the vili, which are the component of the small intestine that absorb nutrients. This person is usually unable to absorb iron, regardless of how much he eats.
• Individuals who suffer from Crohn's disease find that the walls of their intestines become thickened and damaged, making it difficult for iron to absorb through the small intestine's wall.
• People who undergo gastric bypass surgery are only able to eat small meals, which may prevent them from getting enough iron into their diets.
• Very strict vegans and vegetarians may not incorporate enough iron into their diets. In addition, adults who continuously eat a nutrient-poor diet may experience the same problem.
• Diseased states that reduce the presence of iron in the body include extensive cancer, uremia, nephrotic syndrome and tissue inflammation states.

Individuals who want to incorporate more iron into their diet can try eating leafy greens, meat, eggs and iron fortified foods.