10 Foods That Trigger Anemia That Must Be Avoided, Don't Underestimate It

Kapanlagi.com - Anemia may often be underestimated, but its impact on health can be very serious. In Karawang, recent data shows that thousands of teenage girls suffer from anemia due to poor dietary habits, including the habit of consuming popular snacks like seblak. But is it true that certain foods can worsen the condition of anemia?

In a summary from KapanLagi.com based on various sources on Thursday, (20/3/2025), we have compiled a list of foods that can trigger anemia and explained the reasons behind it. Let's take a look together!

1. Understand Anemia: Causes and Its Impact on the Body

Anemia, a condition that is often overlooked, occurs when the body lacks red blood cells or hemoglobin, which is vital for delivering oxygen throughout the body. The main causes of this issue are usually iron and vitamin deficiencies, two essential elements in the process of red blood cell formation.

However, the impact of anemia on health should not be taken lightly. If left untreated, this condition can trigger prolonged fatigue, reduce the immune system's resistance, and even disrupt the functioning of vital organs.

2. Often Overlooked Symptoms of Anemia

The symptoms of anemia often disguise themselves, not clearly visible on the surface, leading many to overlook them. Some of these include:

• Pale face and weak body.
• Frequent dizziness.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Shortness of breath can be a warning sign.
• Hands and feet often feeling cold.
• Decreased immune resistance.

3. Types of Anemia and Its Risk Factors

Anemia, which consists of various types, can have different impacts on each individual. Among these types are:

• Iron deficiency anemia ranks highest, particularly affecting teenage girls and pregnant women who require more iron intake.
• Megaloblastic anemia, caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid, often lurks among vegetarians who pay insufficient attention to alternative nutrient intake.
• No less serious, aplastic and hemolytic anemia, though rare, are dangerous conditions that should be watched out for.

4. 10 Foods That Can Trigger Anemia, Beware!

Check out the list of foods that should be avoided if you want to maintain iron levels in your body, as these foods can worsen anemia and hinder the absorption of this essential nutrient!

5. 1. Seblak: A Favorite Snack That Is Risky?

Seblak, a snack that is currently tempting the appetite and becoming a trend, turns out to hide unexpected dangers. The broth of seblak, which is high in sodium, can hinder the body from absorbing iron, while the flour from the crackers can disrupt our nutrient metabolism.

Not to mention, the cooking process at high temperatures can potentially damage the iron content in food ingredients. So, even though seblak is appetizing, it is wise to limit its consumption for better health!

6. 2. Instant Noodles: Convenient But Can Trigger Nutritional Deficiencies

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Instant noodles have indeed become a favorite for many people due to their convenience and affordable price. However, behind their practicality, there is a lurking danger: excessive consumption can lower the nutritional levels in the body and increase the risk of anemia.

Not only that, but the instant seasoning that often accompanies them can also hinder the absorption of important nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. Therefore, it is very important to be wise in enjoying instant noodles to maintain health.

7. 3. Tea: A Delicious Drink That Should Be Limited

Tea, a familiar drink and a favorite of many, actually holds secrets behind its enjoyment. Although refreshing, tea contains tannins and caffeine that can inhibit iron absorption in the body.

Interestingly, these tannins can reduce iron absorption by up to 60% when enjoyed alongside foods rich in iron. So, for tea enthusiasts, it’s wise to pay attention to the timing and manner of consumption!

8. 4. Coffee: The Barrier to Iron Absorption

The caffeine found in coffee can actually worsen anemia conditions! Therefore, it is advisable to avoid consuming tea or coffee alongside foods rich in iron.

Moreover, the habit of sipping coffee on an empty stomach can exacerbate this issue. So, be wise in scheduling your coffee intake to maintain your health!

9. 5. Soft Drinks: Impeding Nutrient Absorption

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Did you know that soft drinks can be an enemy to iron absorption in the body? The high phosphorus content in soda can bind with iron, making it difficult to absorb, while the abundant sugar can disrupt the metabolism of iron itself.

Not only that, soda can also hinder calcium absorption, which is crucial for the formation of red blood cells. So, for your health, it's best to limit your consumption of soft drinks in your daily diet!

10. 6. Fried Foods: Fats and Free Radicals, a Bad Combination for Blood

Fried foods are indeed tempting, but did you know that their deliciousness can have negative effects on our body? The used cooking oil employed for frying can trigger the emergence of harmful free radicals, damaging body cells, including vital red blood cells.

In addition, oily foods tend to be low in iron, which increases the risk of anemia. Therefore, let’s limit our consumption of fried foods to maintain optimal blood health!

11. 7. Junk Food: High in Calories, Low in Nutrition

Fast food is indeed tempting with its convenience, but behind its mouthwatering taste lies a danger to health. High in calories but low in nutrition, regular consumption of junk food can lead to deficiencies in vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron—essential nutrients that the body needs to prevent anemia.

Therefore, it is very important to prioritize healthy food choices in our daily diet. This is aimed at better health!

12. 8. High Salt Processed Foods: Disruption in Iron Absorption

Processed foods that are high in sodium, such as sausages, nuggets, and canned foods, can disrupt our body's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Not only that, the preservatives and additives contained in these foods can also damage iron metabolism. Therefore, it is important for us to limit the consumption of processed foods to maintain optimal body health!

13. 9. Sweets and Excess Sugar: Why Should They Be Reduced?

Consuming sweets in excess can negatively impact the absorption of essential nutrients in our body. The abundant sugar in sweets can actually decrease our appetite for nutritious foods that should be sources of energy and health. As a healthier alternative, fresh fruits can be a smart choice to satisfy the sweet craving without compromising health.

14. 10. Ice Cream: The Cold That Hinders Nutrient Absorption

Although ice cream is tempting and refreshing, indulging in it too much can backfire on our health, especially in terms of iron absorption. The cold temperature of ice cream slows down the digestive process, while the high sugar content can disrupt nutrient metabolism.

Not only that, the saturated fats found in ice cream can also hinder the absorption of essential nutrients. So, enjoy its deliciousness, but remember to enjoy it wisely!

15. How to Prevent Anemia with a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is not just a trend, but also the key to preventing anemia! By consuming foods rich in iron, such as red meat, green vegetables, legumes, and eggs, you can significantly increase your hemoglobin levels in the blood.

Not only that, adding vitamin C to your daily menu will help your body absorb iron better. And don't forget, space out your tea or coffee drinking time from mealtime so that the nutrients you consume can be absorbed optimally. Let's maintain health with the right diet!

16. Healthy Snack Alternatives to Avoid Anemia

To stay healthy without sacrificing flavor, try various healthy snacks that tantalize your taste buds!

• Fruits rich in vitamins.
• Delicious sandwiches filled with tempting eggs or meat.
• Crunchy nuts.
• Fruit smoothies combined with green vegetables.
• Creamy yogurt filled with fresh fruit chunks.

All these options are not only good for your body, but also delight your palate!

(kpl/sfh)