The Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), on Wednesday, May 29, explained the potential causes and symptoms of anemia.

In an interview with PTV's Bagong Pilipinas segment, DOST-FNRI Science Research Specialist II Kim Irvin Protacio pointed out that one of the possible causes of anemia is a person’s “diet.”

"So, there are many possible causes of anemia. One of them is our diet," Protacio said in a mix of English and Filipino.

"A diet lacking in vitamins and minerals such as iron, folate, and vitamin B12 can lead to anemia," he added.

He cited that foods or diets deficient in nutritious sources of iron, like meat, pork, beef, or chicken, and vegetables such as moringa, and sweet potato leaves can cause anemia.

Protacio also cited that parasitic infections, socio-economic factors, and demographic characteristics are among the reasons for having this condition.

He explained that anemia is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells in the body.

He highlighted that in this condition, these red blood cells (RBCs) exhibit lower-than-normal levels of hemoglobin.

"Hemoglobin, which partly contains iron, plays a role as an oxygen transporter to facilitate the proper functioning of various body parts," he said

"In cases of hemoglobin deficiency, oxygen levels in the body are also insufficient," he added "this may manifest in various symptoms like quick fatigue, dizziness, weakness, or shortness of breath."

Effects

Protacio explained the possibility that paleness is "a manifestation because, again, our red blood cells give us color."

"So, if we lack healthy ones, we may appear lighter or paler," he said.

The specialist advised the public to undergo a blood check to confirm whether they are anemic or not.