Everything about anaemia…and how to get it under control

Up to 44 per cent of South Africans, mainly women and seniors, suffer from anaemia as a result of magnesium deficiency.

A study revealed a reverse relationship between magnesium intake and anaemia in women and older participants with no significant association in men.

According to a study from Ganzhou People's Hospital in Jiangxi, China, researchers analysed data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey exploring the connection between magnesium intake and anaemia. This is what you need to know:

What is magnesium and how does it work?

Magnesium is found in every cell and is an essential mineral the body needs to function. It is used in hundreds of biochemical reactions to keep the body healthy.

What does magnesium deficiency cause?

Magnesium deficiency can lead to health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, depression and headaches. Research shows that low magnesium may even make vitamin D ineffective in the body, affecting calcium and phosphate levels.

What is anaemia?

Anaemia, is a disorder characterised by a reduction of haemoglobin in the blood, affecting about 25 per cent of the global population and 44 per cent of SA women. It causes tiredness, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular issues, reduced body function and increased hospitalisation rates in older adults.

What to do?

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