Introduction
Women should have a proper vitamin and nutrient supply to the body at different stages of their lives. Anemia is a condition when the body does not produce enough red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body. Iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 are the most important nutrients for the production of healthy red blood cells. Puberty is a period of increased iron demands due to blood volume expansion. This phase poses a risk of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiency due to blood loss. During fertility, consistent monitoring of iron levels is crucial, as insufficient levels may impact fetal oxygen supply. In menopause, a risk of iron deficiency exists, emphasizing the importance of incorporating iron-enriched foods to prevent anemia.
Role of iron, folic acid and vit B12
Iron is a protein in hemoglobin. Without sufficient iron body may not produce the required oxygen to supply the body. It also helps in energy metabolism and immune function and prevents the body from getting ill. Folic acid helps in cell growth and DNA synthesis and can prevent birth defects in unborn babies. It also helps to prevent premature births and low birth weight. Vitamin B12 helps the body to make red blood cells and also helps in the functioning and development of brain and nerve cells.
Who may need them?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women need increased amounts of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to support the growth and development of the baby. Deficiencies in iron and folic acid during pregnancy can potentially impact the health of pregnant women. It may lead to low birth weight and abnormal fetal development. Women on their menstrual period need these 3 supplements, as iron is lost during the monthly period.
Causes
Insufficient intake of iron-enriched foods, unhealthy dietary patterns, and limited intake of folic acid can cause iron and vitamin deficiencies in women. Menstrual bleeding may result in iron loss, potentially causing iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have increased iron and folate needs to prevent birth complications, and inadequacies may lead to iron deficiency anemia and folate deficiencies. Certain medical conditions such as Chron’s disease, and pernicious anemia may affect the absorption of iron and vitamins. Additionally, medications such as antacids, tetracycline, penicillin, and metformin affect the absorption. Other factors like age, habits, and genetics can be a cause of deficiencies.
Prevention and management
Prevention and management of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies in anemia depend on the severity and underlying cause. Choosing healthy foods can help them manage many health problems, some of the preventive measures are eating foods rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 such as dairy products, leafy vegetables, seeds, and nuts regularly. Avoiding beverages can reduce the absorption of iron. Iron and folic acid supplements must be regularly taken, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Vitamin C consumption should be increased.
Conclusion
To conclude, ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining healthy red blood cells, particularly for women of reproductive age prone to anemia. A balanced diet, rich in these nutrients, along with daily vitamin-iron supplements, can effectively prevent and treat anemia. Recognizing the importance of proper nutrition plays a key role in promoting overall well-being and mitigating the risks associated with deficiencies, making anemia a preventable and manageable condition.
References
- Vitamins and minerals for women.Office of Womens Health.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-eating/how-eat-health/vitamins-and-minerals-women Accessed on 1 February 2024. - Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia.National Health Science
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/ .Accessed on 1 feburary 2024. - Vitamin B12 health and disease.National Library Of Medicine https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257642/.Accessed on 1 February 2024.
