Anemia is often seen as a consequence of a lack of iron diet. However, in reality, many people still have anemia despite eating enough and using supplements. According to experts, the cause may lie in gut health, which determines the body's ability to absorb and use iron.
Dr. Anupama NK, Senior Consultant of the Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital (Bangalore, India), said that the iron absorption process mainly takes place in the small intestine. If the intestinal mucosa is inflamed or damaged, iron from food is difficult to absorb, causing prolonged anemia.
The gut determines iron absorption
Many digestive diseases such as gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease or chronic inflammatory bowel disease can reduce nutrient absorption function. Prolonged inflammation causes iron, vitamin B12 and folate not to be fully absorbed, directly affecting the blood production process.
In addition, stomach acid deficiency is also an important factor that is often overlooked. Stomach acid helps convert iron into an easily absorbed form. Elderly people or people who use reducing acids for a long time are at higher risk of poor iron absorption.
Intestinal microbiome and anemia
A healthy gut microbiome helps the body digest and use nutrients effectively. When the microbiome is imbalanced, chronic inflammation can occur, disrupting the transportation and use of iron. This leads to inflammation-related anemia, even if the amount of iron in the body is not too low.
Improve the intestinal tract to control anemia
According to Dr. Anupama, effective anemia treatment needs to focus on improving gut health. A diet rich in iron and fiber, supplementing microbial enzymes, controlling digestive inflammation and reducing stress can help improve nutrient absorption. People with prolonged or unexplained anemia should check their gut health to have appropriate treatment directions.
