Low Iron

I am 51 years of age. I need something to keep my iron level up. My fluctuates for no reason, I do no have menstrual cycles any longer. This is nothing new. At one time I was drinking iron with sulphur – nasty, but it worked. Doctors don't want to listen to me until I feel awful. I try to run at least 4-5 times a week. I am addicted to working out. But when my iron drops below 12.0 I do not have the energy to work and run. Any suggestions?

I assume that your doctor has checked that there is no medical reason for your low iron. Reasons can include ulcers, bleeding piles, poor nutrition, liver disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Especially with your high level of physical activity, good nutrition is essential for the absorption of iron.
Avoid foods that limit iron absorption: coffee, tea, chocolate, egg yolk, wheat bran, whole wheat bread. Some drugs, such as antacids, and excessive calcium intake decrease iron absorption.
Vitamin C and herbal bitters such as dandelion root improve iron absorption. Increase the number of fresh fruit and leafy green vegetables in your diet and add iron-containing foods such as dried fruit and almonds. Bitter herbs should be taken half an hour before meals.
If you are not a vegetarian, red meat, especially liver, helps to restore iron. Buy organic if possible.