Iron-deficiency anaemia in Indian women: why it's so common

Iron-deficiency anaemia happens when your body does not have enough iron to make healthy red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen around your body, so when they run low, you can feel tired, weak, and short of breath. It is one of the most widespread nutritional concerns among women in India, yet the symptoms are often brushed off as "just being busy" or "just tired."

Several everyday factors stack up together:

• Monthly blood loss. Periods, especially heavy ones, steadily draw on iron stores.
• Diet patterns. Many diets are lower in easily absorbed iron, particularly where meat is eaten less often.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. These greatly increase iron needs.
• Absorption. Tea or coffee with meals can reduce how much iron the body takes up.

• Persistent tiredness or low energy
• Pale skin, inner eyelids, or nailbeds
• Feeling breathless or dizzy more easily than usual
• Headaches, brittle nails, or hair fall
• Unusual cravings for non-food items like ice or clay (pica)

The good news is that iron-deficiency anaemia is very treatable.

• Iron-rich foods. Include sources like green leafy vegetables, lentils and beans, jaggery, dates, and, for those who eat them, eggs and meat.
• Boost absorption. Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C — a squeeze of lemon, amla, or citrus — and keep tea and coffee for between meals rather than with them.
• Supplements when needed. A doctor may recommend iron supplements; take them as advised, as too much is not better.

If you are persistently tired, breathless, or dizzy, do not wait it out — a simple blood test can confirm whether iron is the issue. It is also worth checking the cause, especially if your periods are very heavy. Feeling exhausted all the time is not something you simply have to live with.

Learn more about testing, diet, and treatment in the iron-deficiency anaemia guide.