WHAT TO EAT IF YOU LACK IRON

Anaemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells or the haemoglobin concentration within them is lower than normal. It mainly affects women and children. Globally, it is estimated that 40% of all children aged 6-59 months, 37% of pregnant women and 30% of women 15-49 years of age are affected by anaemia.

In severe cases, anaemia can cause poor cognitive and motor development in children. It can also cause problems for pregnant women and their babies.

What causes it? Anaemia can be caused by poor nutrition, infections, chronic diseases, heavy menstruation, pregnancy issues and family history. It is often caused by a lack of iron in the blood.

How to prevent and treat this condition? Choose foods rich in iron, folate, Vitamin A and B12 (see picture below).

Source: WHO