Most common causes of iron deficiency anaemia

Pregnancy

Pregnancy and breast feeding deplete iron stores in the woman leading to anemia.

Blood loss

Heavy blood loss such as that during a surgery, heavy menstrual bleeding or frequent blood donation leads to anemia.

Improper diet

1. Lower dietary intake of iron causes anemia.
2. Some of the food habits like consuming dairy or other calcium-rich food and caffeinated drinks like coffee with iron-rich food hamper iron absorption.

Diseases

Iron is not absorbed in diseases like Crohn’s disease and Celiac disease. Such diseases contribute to improper absorption of iron.

Medicines

Medicines like calcium supplements when taken with iron-rich food hamper the absorption of iron.

Surgery

Surgeries like gastric bypass make it difficult for the right absorption of iron.

Hereditary

In some of the cases anemia is hereditary. Infants may be affected since birth.

Age

1. Teenage girls are more prone to anemia because of menstrual flow and improper diet.
2. Elderly women are also more prone to anemia due to associated diseases and medications.

How to deal

Dietary changes: Consume diet rich in iron like beans, iron, fortified cereals, tomatoes, green peas, leafy vegetables like spinach and fenugreek leaves. They should be taken with citrus fruits like orange, grapes or berries for best results. Nutrients in citrus fruits, coat the iron and facilitate better absorption by the digestive system. Avoid caffeinated drinks.

Iron supplements: Take iron supplements only under medical supervision.