Can you be iron deficient without anemia? i had blood work done in nov and my rbc and hemo were normal. but ive been dizzy and tired and short of breath and my hair and skin are dry. i looked up rdi for iron and im below that. should i change diet?

some basics: Iron is the carrier molecule in red blood cells & adding it is the rate limiting component for cell creation. Anemia is one of the most sensitive indicators of body iron stores. The symptoms you cite are common to a number of different medical conditions. I would first have a checkup to see if anything worrisome is going on. If not, change your diet if you wish.

Instead of approximating what you may or may not need, contact your doctor and ask these questions. As mentioned, a number of conditions can cause your problems, and uncertain that anemia is the disorder. Do not act on the dietary front unless your doctor recommends a shift.