While iron deficiency anemia is a common problem for young women, it can be prevented with changes in your food choices.

Iron deficiency results in the body having too few red blood cells or the cells' inability to carry adequate amounts of oxygen from the lungs to all your body’s cells. An inadequate supply of oxygen means body cells can’t produce enough energy, leading to overall fatigue.

Young women often suffer from iron deficiency anemia due to heavy menstrual flow, failure to consume enough iron-rich foods or elimination of high-iron foods entirely. Help prevent iron-deficiency anemia by adding iron-rich foods to your eating plan.

Iron-rich foods include red meats like beef, pork, lamb and veal as well as chicken and fish. Good plant sources of iron include soy nuts, wheat bran, spinach, red beans, enriched cereals, rice and other grain foods.

Iron from most animal sources usually is better absorbed in the body than iron from plant sources.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team

To view previous Daily Tips, click here.

Print Version