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Iron deficiency, more commonly known as Anaemia, occurs when
the body is low in red blood cell count. Iron is the most important component
used in the creation of red blood cells, which enables them to carry oxygen
around the body. Thus, a decline in the iron levels can lead to a number of
maladies, which can be life-threatening, if left unchecked, says Rohit
Shelatkar, VP at Vitabiotics Ltd and Fitness & Nutrition Expert. Some of the
signs and symptoms of iron deficiency include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Cold hands and feet
- Dizziness and anxiety
- Brittle nails
If this remains unchecked, it can lead to severe complications like heart
problems, trouble during pregnancy and growth issues. Iron deficiency in the
body can occur due to common causes such as poor diet, heavy blood loss,
pregnancy, and the body's decreased ability to absorb iron.
To avoid these complications, it is very crucial to maintain good iron intake.
The risk of iron deficiency can be reduced by consumption of foods rich in iron.
There are two types of iron in foods: Heme iron and Nonheme iron,
explains Shelatkar . Heme iron is found in meat, poultry, and seafood. Non Heme
iron is found in plant foods and foods fortified with iron. Some of the Iron
Rich foods that should be consumed include:
- Red meat, pork and poultry
- Seafood
- Eggs
- Beans
- Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach
- Dried fruit, such as raisins and apricots
- Iron-fortified cereals, breads and pastas
- Peas
The body absorbs more iron from meat as opposed to other sources of food. Thus,
vegetarians and people who choose not to consume meat may need to increase
intake of plant-based foods that are rich in iron, in order to get the same
levels of the mineral as one who consumes meat, Shelatkar points out.
The body's absorption of iron can be boosted by eating foods rich in Vitamin C,
in order to achieve the desired levels, as they help the stomach absorb iron
from food. Some of the best foods that aid in this process include fruits and
vegetables like broccoli, tomatoes, kiwis, oranges, strawberries and peppers.
Other than this, one can use iron supplements. Care must be taken not to overdo
it, as there can be unpleasant side effects of consuming too many iron
supplements like stomach pain, constipation or diarrhoea, heartburn and nausea.
Slow release capsules or tablets or low dose liquid supplements could be ideal.
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