Chennai: Despite the state taking measures to bring down anemia among residents of Tamil Nadu, the anemic index among Tamil women continues to be in the red.
The state has been supplying ‘Amma salt’ (double fortified salt), produced by the Tamil Nadu Salt Corporation (TNSC) since 2014.
According to the National Family Health Survey-4 (2015-16), about 12 million women (15-49 years), or 55.1 per cent of women in Tamil Nadu are anemic, which throws light on the lack of awareness of the salt being created.
Unlike other salts that contain only iodine, Amma salt contains iron, which is essential for the body. “Food habits of an individual are the most important factor that can cause anemia. One of the main reasons why it is mostly found among women is because of their blood loss during their menstrual cycle,” said a senior health official.
Working women tend to pack either a box of lemon rice or curd rice and pickle, which is not necessarily healthy. This does not give the body sufficient iron, said the official.
“Educating the public about the importance of eating iron rich food and what food is rich in iron is essential,” said Dr Neena P, a general physician. “People today do not realize the importance of eating green leafy vegetables. They all prefer eating salads which contain ingredients like oregano,” said consultant dietician Dharani Krishnan.
