Anemia

Anemia is generally caused by the deficiency of Iron & vitamin B12. Women are more prone to anemia and, as per an article published in The Times of India (24 Jan 2022), about 63% Indian women are anemic. 46% of girls under 15, 53.2% non-pregnant women, and 50.4% pregnant women are anemic in India.

There are majorly 4 types of Anemia:

1.    Iron deficiency Anemia.

2.    Pernicious Anemia: Deficiency of Vitamin B12.

3.    Aplastic Anemia: When your body’s bone marrow cannot make sufficient RBC (Red Blood Cells) and WBC (White Blood Cells).

4.    Hemolytic Anemia: When your body has a low number of Red Blood Cells (RBC). This condition may arise due to autoimmune reactions, physical damage, body exposure to toxic chemicals, bone marrow failure etc.

Iron supplements are available in many forms like Carbonyl Iron, Ferrous Ascorbate, Ferrous Sulfate, Ferrous Gluconate, Ferrous Fumarate, Ferrous Bisglycinate, Heme Iron Polypeptide, Lyposomal Iron etc. Of these Ferrous Ascorbate is an easily available and economical option, whereas Liposomal Iron and Heme Iron Polypeptide have better functionality.

Liposomal Iron is micronised (causing increased surface area of the Iron), and micro encapsulated and thus a lipid bi-layer is formed. This allows it to pass through stomach and reach intestinal lumen intact. Thus it is better absorbed and leaves almost nil residual and minimise Iron induced constipation or GI irritation. 

Natural Sources (Fruits, vegetables etc) of Iron:

Include sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, spinach, sweet potatoes, peas, broccoli, beans, raisins, apricots, poultry, red meat and fish etc in your daily diet (food) to avoid anemia.