Final answer:
Iron deficiency commonly leads to general weakness or fatigue and poor concentration, with more severe cases causing shortness of breath. It's preventable through diet or supplements, especially in high-risk groups such as women of childbearing age and young children.
Step-by-step explanation:
A common habit of someone who has an iron deficiency includes experiencing general weakness or fatigue, especially during exercise. Additionally, they might suffer from poor concentration and in more severe cases, shortness of breath with activity due to the reduced hemoglobin levels that are necessary for oxygen transport in the blood. This condition, known as iron-deficiency anemia, is particularly common among women of childbearing age and young children, and can result from inadequate dietary iron intake or issues with iron absorption.
To prevent iron deficiency anemia, it is important to consume foods rich in iron such as red meat, legumes, and spinach. Vegetarians and individuals with certain medical conditions that affect iron absorption may need to monitor their iron intake more closely or take iron supplements to maintain adequate iron levels and prevent deficiency. Early childhood iron deficiency can lead to significant health problems that are not reversible later in life, making prevention and early treatment crucial.