Anaemia is a common health condition that affects millions of people around the world, including a large number of Indians. It is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other serious health problems if left untreated. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of this condition and its impact on their health. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and simple steps to prevent anaemia, and how it is silently affecting millions of Indians.
Causes of Anaemia:
Anaemia can be caused by various factors, including a deficiency of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid. Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common type of anaemia and is caused by a lack of iron in the body. This can be due to poor dietary intake of iron-rich foods, chronic blood loss, or certain medical conditions that affect the body’s ability to absorb iron. Vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency anaemia are also common and can be caused by a lack of these essential vitamins in the diet or an inability to absorb them properly.
Symptoms of Anaemia:
The symptoms of anaemia can vary from person to person, but the most common ones include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale skin. These symptoms may seem minor, but if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health problems such as heart disease, pregnancy complications, and even death. It is essential to recognize these symptoms and take necessary steps to prevent and treat anaemia.
Prevention of Anaemia:
The good news is that anaemia can be prevented by making simple changes in our diet and lifestyle. Including iron-rich foods such as leafy greens, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals in our diet can help prevent iron deficiency anaemia. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B12 and folic acid, such as meat, fish, eggs, and leafy greens, can also help prevent these types of anaemia. It is also essential to have a balanced and healthy diet to ensure that our body gets all the necessary nutrients.
Screening for Anaemia:
Regular screening for anaemia is crucial, especially for women and children, as they are more prone to this condition. Pregnant women and young children should be screened for anaemia during their routine check-ups. It is also recommended for women of childbearing age to get screened for anaemia before and during pregnancy. Early detection and treatment of anaemia can prevent serious health complications and improve overall health.
Simple Steps to Increase Haemoglobin:
Apart from a healthy diet and regular screening, there are some simple steps that we can take to increase our haemoglobin levels. These include:
1. Taking iron supplements: If you have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anaemia, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements to help increase your haemoglobin levels.
2. Vitamin C intake: Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron in the body. Including foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and bell peppers, can help increase haemoglobin levels.
3. Avoiding iron inhibitors: Certain foods, such as tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods, can inhibit the absorption of iron in the body. It is best to avoid these foods or consume them separately from iron-rich foods.
4. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help improve blood circulation and increase the production of red blood cells, which can help increase haemoglobin levels.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, which can lead to a decrease in haemoglobin levels.
In conclusion, anaemia is a common but often overlooked health condition that is silently affecting millions of Indians. It is essential to be aware of the causes, symptoms, and simple steps to prevent and treat anaemia. By making small changes in our diet and lifestyle and getting regular screenings, we can ensure that our haemoglobin levels are within a healthy range. Let us take charge of our health and prevent anaemia from affecting our lives.
