Hemoglobin Deficiency in Women: Causes, Prevention, and the Importance of a Balanced Diet

In India and Pakistan, a large number of women suffer from hemoglobin deficiency, primarily due to multiple pregnancies, poor dietary habits, and a lack of proper nutrition. Many mothers focus on providing a good diet for their children but often neglect their own health, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

Causes of Low Hemoglobin:

• Multiple pregnancies
• Poor dietary habits
• Iron deficiency due to inadequate intake
• Fasting during Ramadan without proper nutrition
• Heavy menstrual cycles

Doctors recommend a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test to check hemoglobin (Hb) levels. If Hb is low and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) is also reduced, it often indicates iron deficiency anemia. Monitoring menstrual cycles and following a doctor-prescribed diet is essential to maintain healthy hemoglobin levels.

Best Dietary Sources of Iron

To improve hemoglobin levels, include the following iron-rich foods in your diet:
✔️ Whole grain foods (multigrain wheat paratha, kale chana)
✔️ Vitamin C sources (orange juice) – helps iron absorption
✔️ Iron-rich foods (mutton mince, beetroot, pomegranate, dates)
✔️ Oatmeal with multigrain flour

Using iron-cast utensils for cooking is also beneficial, as they release iron into the food, boosting intake naturally.

What to Avoid

Women with low hemoglobin should limit the intake of calcium-rich foods (like dairy products) during iron consumption, as calcium can hinder iron absorption.

A Message for All Women

It’s crucial for women to prioritize their health. If you are healthy, you can take care of your children, your family, and your responsibilities. A small but impactful change is ensuring equal nutrition for daughters and sons—if you serve one portion of a healthy food item to your son, serve two to your daughter.

Your health matters. Start taking care of yourself today! 💖