Iron Deficiency Anemia

• Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition caused by lowered production of red blood cells. It is caused by lack of iron which can be caused by pregnancy, menstruation or other types of blood loss.
• As red blood cells, carry oxygen around the body via protein called haemoglobin, symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
• Taking iron tablets and increasing the amount of iron rich foods in a persons diet is a way to manage iron deficiency anaemia.
• Iron rich foods include meat, particularly red meat, dark green leafy vegetables, and nuts or seeds.
• Animal products contain haem iron which is easier to absorb the non haem iron found in plant products. A combination of both sources coupled with vitamin C to help absorption is the best diet to prevent anaemia.