Anaemia remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Nigeria. It occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues and organs. This condition can affect people of all ages, but it is most common among women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and children under five years.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 40% of Nigerian women suffer from some form of anaemia, often linked to poor diet, infections, and limited access to healthcare. The rising cases highlight the need for increased awareness about prevention, treatment, and nutrition-based management.
TJ News Nigeria reports that one of the most effective ways to combat anaemia is through proper diet. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the foods that cure anaemia in Nigeria can help reduce the high prevalence across communities.
What is Anaemia?
Anaemia is a medical condition where the body does not produce enough red blood cells or haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency in red blood cells or haemoglobin leads to fatigue, weakness, and other health complications.
Common Causes of Anaemia in Nigeria
Several factors contribute to the high rate of anaemia in Nigeria. The most common causes include:
- Iron Deficiency
- Nigeria’s diet is often low in iron-rich foods, especially in rural areas.
- Iron deficiency is the leading cause of anaemia, particularly in children and women.
- Malaria
- Malaria remains endemic in Nigeria and destroys red blood cells, worsening anaemia rates.
- Parasitic Infections
- Intestinal worms such as hookworms cause blood loss, leading to iron deficiency anaemia.
- Poor Nutrition
- Inadequate intake of vitamin B12, folate, and protein contributes to anaemia.
- Chronic Diseases
- Conditions such as kidney disease or HIV can reduce red blood cell production.
- Blood Loss
- Women in Nigeria face increased risk of anaemia due to heavy menstrual bleeding and pregnancy-related complications.
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Symptoms of Anaemia
Recognizing anaemia early is crucial for effective management. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Pale skin and gums
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
- Cold hands and feet
- Headaches
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Severe cases may result in chest pain, cognitive problems, or pregnancy complications.
Types of Anaemia
There are different types of anaemia seen in Nigeria. The major ones include:
- Iron Deficiency Anaemia – the most common type caused by low iron intake.
- Folate Deficiency Anaemia – caused by lack of folic acid in diet.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anaemia – occurs when the body cannot absorb vitamin B12.
- Sickle Cell Anaemia – a genetic disorder common in Nigeria, affecting red blood cell shape.
- Aplastic Anaemia – a rare type caused by bone marrow failure.
Foods That Cure Anaemia in Nigeria
One of the best natural remedies for anaemia is diet. Nigerians have access to several affordable and locally available foods that help restore haemoglobin levels. Below are categories of foods that cure anaemia in Nigeria:
1. Iron-Rich Nigerian Foods
- Beans – widely available and affordable, a good source of non-heme iron.
- Ugu (Fluted Pumpkin Leaves) – rich in iron and folate, often prepared in soups.
- Okra leaves – contain iron and vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption.
- Beef and Goat Meat – excellent sources of heme iron, easily absorbed by the body.
- Fish (Titus, Sardines, Mackerel) – provide both protein and iron.
- Liver and Kidney – organ meats are among the richest iron sources.
2. Vitamin C-Rich Foods (for Iron Absorption)
- Oranges
- Pineapples
- Mangoes
- Guavas
3. Folate-Rich Nigerian Foods
- Groundnuts
- Soybeans
- Leafy vegetables (Spinach, Bitterleaf, Waterleaf)
- Avocado
4. Vitamin B12 Sources
- Eggs
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Fish and poultry
Foods to Avoid with Anaemia
Certain foods can block iron absorption or worsen anaemia. Nigerians managing the condition should reduce intake of:
- Excessive tea and coffee (contain tannins that block iron absorption)
- Alcohol (can damage bone marrow and affect red blood cell production)
- Highly processed foods low in nutrients
- Too much dairy (calcium interferes with iron absorption)
Home Remedies for Managing Anaemia
Apart from medical treatment, some home remedies can help manage anaemia effectively:
- Drink Ugu (Pumpkin Leaf) Juice – blending raw ugu leaves with milk is a common Nigerian remedy.
- Eat Dates and Tiger Nuts – provide iron and essential minerals.
- Include Honey – supports red blood cell production.
- Use Iron Pots – cooking with iron pots increases iron content in food.
Medical Treatment Options for Anaemia
While foods are key, medical treatment is often necessary, especially for severe cases. Common options include:
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Iron Supplements: Prescribed for iron-deficiency anaemia to quickly restore iron levels.
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Folic Acid Tablets: Help in red blood cell formation, often recommended for pregnant women.
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Vitamin B12 Injections or Tablets: Essential when deficiency causes anaemia.
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Blood Transfusion: Used in severe cases where haemoglobin is critically low.
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Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Such as malaria, sickle cell disease, or chronic infections that worsen anaemia.
Anaemia and Women in Nigeria
Women and children are the most vulnerable to anaemia in Nigeria. Pregnant women need additional iron and folate to support the baby’s growth. Anaemia in pregnancy increases risks of premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal mortality.
Health experts recommend iron and folate supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women should also prioritize iron-rich foods such as leafy vegetables, liver, and legumes.
Prevention of Anaemia in Nigeria
Preventing anaemia requires a combination of dietary, medical, and lifestyle measures:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12.
- Deworm regularly to prevent parasitic infections.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to avoid malaria.
- Take prescribed iron supplements when necessary.
- Avoid self-medication and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
FAQs on Anaemia in Nigeria
Q1: What is the main cause of anaemia in Nigeria?
The leading cause is iron deficiency, often worsened by malaria and poor nutrition.
Q2: What foods cure anaemia Nigeria?
Foods such as beans, ugu leaves, liver, beef, fish, and oranges help cure anaemia naturally.
Q3: Can drinking ugu juice cure anaemia?
Yes, pumpkin (ugu) leaves are rich in iron and folate, making ugu juice beneficial for anaemia management.
Q4: What foods should be avoided with anaemia?
Excessive tea, coffee, alcohol, and too much dairy should be avoided as they block iron absorption.
Q5: Is anaemia dangerous during pregnancy?
Yes, anaemia in pregnancy can lead to complications such as premature birth and maternal death if untreated.
Key Takeaway
Anaemia in Nigeria is a serious health challenge, but it can be prevented and managed with proper nutrition and lifestyle practices. Increasing awareness about the foods that cure anaemia Nigeria, along with improved healthcare access, can reduce its burden among women, children, and vulnerable communities.
