Anemia Warning Signs and Diet Advice From WHO
New Delhi, October 29: Constant fatigue, weakness after small efforts or frequent dizziness can be signs that something is wrong with your body. One possible reason is anemia, which means a shortage of blood in the body. When this occurs, oxygen does not reach different parts of the body properly, and even daily activities can become difficult. Certain types of anemia can be prevented with a balanced diet and the right nutrients.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has posted practical guidance on its social media account X to help people prevent anemia. The organization advises including foods rich in iron, folate, vitamin A and vitamin B12 in the diet.
Iron is needed by the body to make hemoglobin. Pulses, rajma, chickpeas, beans and green leafy vegetables are recommended sources. For non-vegetarians, lean red meat and fish can also be included. Vitamin C-rich foods consumed alongside iron can help the body absorb it more effectively.
Vitamin C enables the body to absorb iron from food. Oranges, lemons, guavas, amla and other vitamin C-rich fruits can be eaten for this benefit. Lemon juice added to dal or green vegetables is one easy example.
Leafy vegetables with dark green color, including spinach, fenugreek and mustard, are nutrient-dense. They contain folate, which has an important role in red blood cell formation. Carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes, which are orange or yellow in color, can be useful sources of vitamin A.
For the proper formation of red blood cells, the body needs vitamin B12 and folate. Fish, poultry and some other animal-based foods supply vitamin B12. Pulses, beans and green leafy vegetables are good sources of folate.
Continuous tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness or weakness should not be ignored as ordinary work stress. Get hemoglobin and other necessary tests done with the guidance of a doctor. Not every case of anemia is caused by poor nutrition alone, as blood loss, nutrient deficiencies or other health issues may also play a role. Treatment is most effective when the underlying cause is correctly identified.