Which nutrient deficiency is most commonly observed in obese individuals due to inflammation?

• A. Vitamin D deficiency
• B. Vitamin C deficiency
• C. Iron deficiency due to inflammation
• D. Calcium deficiency

Answer: (C)

Chronic inflammation in obesity disrupts iron metabolism, leading to functional iron deficiency. Inflammatory signals, especially IL-6, drive the liver to produce hepcidin, a hormone that blocks ferroportin on gut cells and macrophages. This prevents iron from being absorbed and released from stores, so circulating iron drops even when stores are adequate. Ferritin, an acute‑phase protein, may be normal or high during inflammation, masking true iron status unless you also check markers like transferrin saturation. Other nutrient deficiencies can occur in obesity for different reasons, but iron deficiency tied to inflammation is the most characteristic pattern.