What is Iron Deficiency Anemia? (IDA)
29.4% women (15 - 49 yo) in the Philippines suffer from anemia1
What is Iron Deficiency Anemia? (IDA)
Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) is one of the most common types of anemia caused by insufficient iron supply to meet the body’s demands. People with mild or moderate IDA may not have any signs or symptoms. More severe IDA may cause fatigue, tiredness, shortness of breath, or chest pain. If left untreated, IDA can lead to severe anemia that can become life threatening.
29.4% women (15 - 49 yo) in the Philippines suffer from anemia1
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF
IRON DEFICIENCY2
IRON DEFICIENCY2
Weakness or fatigue
Difficulty in concentrating
Insomnia
Brittle hair and nails
Why is iron important3?
Our red blood cells require iron to build hemoglobin which is responsible for delivering oxygen to the body. Iron also aids brain function, supports the immune system and helps in energy generation for the body.
COMMON CAUSES OF IDA4-7
Menstruation
Menstrual disorders account for 5%–10% of women experiencing iron deficiency anemia (IDA)1
Pregnancy
The demand for iron and other vitamins increases due to the growing fetus.
Vegetarian diet
Vegetarian and vegan diets often do not include enough iron-rich foods, such as meat and fish.
Weight loss
Following low-calorie diets or skipping meals could mean you aren’t meeting your daily required intake of iron.
Endurance sport
Female athletes are at a higher risk for IDA. They lose more iron due to heavy sweating as well as increased blood loss in the urine and GI tract. Add to that monthly blood loss during menses.
Hectic schedules
Career women facing high stress, irregular hours and an improper diet are also prone to IDA.
Health risks associated with IDA8
Left untreated, anemia may cause several health complications:
Depression:
IDA keeps your body from functioning properly. This can cause anxiety and even depression.
Heart problems:
With IDA, your heart has to work harder to move oxygen-rich blood through your body. This strains the heart and can cause problems in the long term.
Pregnancy complications:
IDA can cause preterm delivery or low birth weight.
Chronic illness complications:
IDA can make the condition worse or result in treatments not working as well.
Iron supplements:
9 things to look out for9,10
9 things to look out for9,10
1
There are different types of iron supplements and dosage amounts vary.
2
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation and abdominal cramping.
3
Slow-release iron pills may be gentler on the stomach, for example Multivitamins + Iron (Iberet® Active), has Sustained Release Gradumet® Technology that helps reduce gastric irritation.
4
Calcium should NOT be taken at the same time as iron. Also avoid milk, antacids, high-fiber foods and caffeine.
5
Enteric-coated iron pills may be less effective.
6
Vitamin C has been shown to enhance iron absorption.
7
Have a small amount of food with iron supplements.
8
Try a stool softener if constipation is a problem.
9
Take iron supplements in smaller amounts if nausea and vomiting occur.
DIAGNOSING IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA
What are my iron levels?
What are the risks? Short-term and long-term?
How serious is it?
What are the tests that I should take?
What’s the most likely cause of my symptoms?
What is causing my iron deficiency?
What symptoms should I watch out for?
Are there other possible causes of my symptoms?
What are my treatment options?
How long will the treatment take?
Are there any side effects?
What foods should I eat to increase my iron level? What foods to avoid?
How do I prevent IDA from happening again?
For the proper treatment and care, it is best to consult your doctor if you think you may have Iron Deficiency Anemia. Here’s a handy, downloadable list of questions to ask your doctor at your visit.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
Blood booster iron supplement for active individuals to fight iron deficiency anemia