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After a long and draining day of tackling errands, nothing feels better than collapsing into bed for some much-needed rest. But for some, the comfort of sleep is out of reach. Instead, bedtime brings an uncomfortable tingling sensation in the legs and an overwhelming urge to jump out of bed and walk around.

If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)—a condition that makes restful sleep a challenge for millions of people. But what does the term syndrome really mean? It’s important to understand that the word “syndrome” indicates that the exact cause of the condition isn’t completely clear. In the case of RLS, researchers have identified links to iron deficiency, dopamine imbalances, and other factors, but the full picture of what causes it remains uncertain.

What we do know, however, is that when a person is not deficient in omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols, the symptoms of RLS and iron deficiency are typically not a concern. Testing your omega-3 levels can scientifically validate whether you’re getting enough of these vital nutrients to support iron absorption and relieve RLS symptoms.

What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

Although the exact cause of RLS is unclear, research points to a strong link between the condition and low iron levels in the brain. Iron plays a crucial role in producing dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps control muscle movement. Without enough iron in the brain, dopamine levels can drop, causing the miscommunication between your brain and muscles that leads to the uncomfortable sensations in your legs.

This is why treating RLS isn’t just about getting enough iron in your blood—it’s about making sure your brain has access to that iron too. Unfortunately, even if you’re consuming enough iron, your body may not absorb or transport it to the brain efficiently.

Studies show that people with RLS often have reduced iron levels in their cerebrospinal fluid, which indicates a shortage in the brain itself. This brain-specific iron deficiency contributes to the abnormal nerve activity that causes RLS symptoms (Allen et al., 2013).

Why Iron Supplements Alone Don’t Solve the Problem

It’s a common mistake to think that taking more iron supplements will fix iron deficiency. Unfortunately, this approach often wastes both time and money. Why? Because the real issue is not how much iron you’re consuming but how well your body absorbs and uses it.

Iron absorption depends on many factors, including the health of your cell membranes and your body’s inflammation levels. If your omega-3 levels are low, your cell membranes may be stiff, making it harder for nutrients like iron to enter the cells. Without addressing this underlying issue, adding more iron through supplements or infusions is like trying to fill a leaky bucket—it doesn’t work effectively.

This is why I always emphasize improving omega-3 levels first. When you have enough omega-3s and polyphenols, your body can absorb iron much more efficiently, and symptoms of RLS and iron deficiency are far less likely to be an issue.

The Role of Dried Blood Spot Testing

One of the most reliable ways to determine if omega-3 insufficiency is affecting your health is through Dried Blood Spot testing. This simple test removes the guesswork and bias by providing an accurate, scientific measurement of your omega-3 levels.

With just a small drop of blood, this test can reveal if your omega-3 levels are below the recommended range, which is critical for improving iron absorption and relieving RLS symptoms. Many people think they’re consuming enough omega-3s, but testing often shows otherwise. With validated results in hand, you can take targeted steps to address deficiencies and monitor your progress over time.

A Mother’s Story: Solving Iron Deficiency with Omega-3

One day, a concerned mom came to me because her daughter had been struggling with iron deficiency for a long time. Despite eating iron-rich foods and receiving iron infusions, her daughter’s iron levels were still not improving. The infusions were not only costly but also time-consuming and stressful for both of them.

I explained to her that part of the problem might be her daughter’s omega-3 levels. Iron absorption isn’t just about how much iron you consume—it’s also about how well your body can use it. Omega-3s play a crucial role in making cell membranes flexible, which helps iron get into the cells where it’s needed, including the brain.

After using Dried Blood Spot testing, we confirmed that her daughter’s omega-3 levels were far below optimal. I suggested she increase her omega-3 intake using BalanceOil+, a supplement I endorse and it combines omega-3s with polyphenols to maximize absorption and effectiveness. After a few weeks of consistent use, her daughter’s iron levels improved significantly, and she no longer needed iron infusions. The mom was thrilled and amazed by the simple change that made such a big difference.

How Omega-3 and Polyphenols Help Restless Leg Syndrome

When my clients start taking BalanceOil+, something amazing happens. This supplement doesn’t just have omega-3s—it also has polyphenols, which come from unripe olives. These polyphenols protect omega-3s from breaking down and help your body absorb them better.

After testing and using BalanceOil+, many of my clients have reported fewer RLS symptoms. Why? Because the combination of omega-3s and polyphenols helps their body absorb more iron, which calms their nerves and reduces the leg discomfort they feel at night.

What You Can Do

If you’re dealing with RLS or low iron, here’s how you can start feeling better:

1. 1. Get Dried Blood Spot testing: This scientifically validated test measures your omega-3 levels and provides clarity on what your body needs. I can help you get the test done.
   2. Take BalanceOil+: This unique supplement provides omega-3s and polyphenols, which work together to improve your iron absorption and reduce RLS symptoms. I can help you get this product.
   3. Eat iron-rich foods: Include foods like red meat, leafy greens, and beans in your diet. Again, the omega-3s will help your body absorb the iron from these foods better.

Next Steps

Restless Leg Syndrome and iron deficiency can make life harder than it needs to be, but the right nutrition can make a big difference. With Dried Blood Spot testing, you can remove the guesswork and confirm whether omega-3 insufficiency is affecting your health. By addressing deficiencies with omega-3s, polyphenols, and iron-rich foods, you can feel calmer, sleep better, and have more energy.

If you or someone you love struggles with RLS or iron deficiency, remember this: improving your omega-3 levels can significantly impact how your body absorbs iron, especially in the brain, and how you feel overall. However, it’s important to note that not all omega-3 or fish oil supplements are created equal. BalanceOil+ stands out because it combines omega-3s with polyphenols, a unique formula that makes all the difference.

I’ve had clients try other brands, only to find through Dried Blood Spot testing that their omega-3 levels remained insufficient. The proof is in the results—BalanceOil+ consistently delivers what’s needed. So, don’t take shortcuts or assume any omega-3 supplement will do the same. Choose the right supplement for the best outcomes.

Final Thoughts

You may be thinking to yourself, “I’ve lived with RLS and iron deficiencies for years—why am I just now learning about the benefits of combining polyphenols with omega-3s from Robert Ferguson?” The truth is, there is unfortunately a widespread lack of awareness about how polyphenols and omega-3s can address Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and iron deficiencies. To provide a clearer picture of why this is the case, I’ve identified seven key factors contributing to this knowledge gap:

1. Focus on Conventional Treatments

• • Traditional medical approaches often focus on symptom management rather than root causes. For RLS, common treatments include iron supplements, dopamine-related medications, or other pharmaceuticals. Similarly, for iron deficiencies, the focus is often solely on increasing dietary iron or prescribing iron infusions. Omega-3s and polyphenols, which work indirectly by enhancing iron absorption and improving cellular health, are less emphasized in mainstream treatments.

2. Limited Physician Training on Nutrition

• • Many healthcare providers receive minimal training in nutrition during medical school, leaving gaps in understanding the role of nutrients like omega-3s and polyphenols in addressing conditions like RLS and iron deficiencies. This knowledge gap can lead to missed opportunities to explore non-pharmaceutical interventions.

3. Nutritional Research Isn’t Always Accessible

• • While there is significant research on omega-3s and polyphenols, the findings often stay within scientific journals and are not widely communicated to the public. Without simplified, relatable messaging, the average person might not realize how these nutrients can help.

4. Bias Toward Quick-Fix Solutions

• • People often prefer fast, easy solutions to health problems, such as a pill or infusion, rather than addressing dietary or lifestyle changes. This mindset may prevent individuals from exploring options like omega-3 and polyphenol supplementation, which require consistency and time to show results.

5. Limited Marketing for Nutritional Approaches

• • Pharmaceutical companies have significant resources to promote medications for conditions like RLS and iron deficiencies. In contrast, omega-3 and polyphenol supplements are marketed less aggressively, and their potential therapeutic effects are often overlooked.

6. Complexity of Nutritional Science

• • The relationship between omega-3s, polyphenols, iron absorption, and RLS is complex. Without clear, digestible information, people may struggle to understand how these nutrients can help.

7. Lack of Routine Testing

• • Tools like Dried Blood Spot testing, which can identify omega-3 insufficiency, are not yet standard practice in healthcare. Without routine testing, deficiencies may go unnoticed, and people may not recognize the connection between their symptoms and nutrient levels.

References

1. 1. Allen, R. P., et al. (2013). Association of Iron Deficiency With Restless Legs Syndrome. American Journal of Hematology. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ajh.23397
   2. Frontiers in Neurology (2020). Iron Deficiency Without Anemia in Restless Leg Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2020.00298/full
   3. Miles, E. A., & Calder, P. C. (2017). Interactions Between Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Iron. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-40458-5_24
   4. Visioli, F., & Galli, C. (2001). Biological Properties of Olive Oil Polyphenols: Implications in Health and Disease. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.
   5. Harris, W. S., et al. (2004). Omega-3 Index as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease: Validity and Clinical Utility. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
   6. Connor, J. R., et al. (2011). Iron and the Brain: Neurodevelopment and Neurodegeneration. Frontiers in Neuroscience.

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Robert Ferguson is a California- and Florida-based single father of two daughters, nutritionist, researcher, best-selling author, speaker, podcast and television host, health advisor, NAACP Image Award Nominee, creator of the Diet Free Life methodology, Chief Nutrition Officer for iCoura Health, and he serves on the Presidential Task Force on Obesity for the National Medical Association. You can e-mail Robert at robert@dietfreelife.com.

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