Patient/caregiver was educated on life-style measures to be observed by individuals with history of iron deficiency anemia as follows:

  1. Vitamin C can establish the acidic environment in the intestine needed for iron absorption. Intake of vitamin C and citrus fruits or juice, such as, orange juice at the same time with iron rich foods and iron supplements, can help improved absorption of iron.
  2. Many senior citizens are recommended aspirin for blood thinning. Use of uncoated aspirin can damage the inner lining of stomach, result in ulcer formation, increase risk for of gastrointestinal bleeding, and contribute to blood loss and anemia. So, individuals taking aspirin must make sure that it is coated, to prevent the risk for blood loss and anemia.
  3. Avoid taking calcium and zinc supplements on the same meal, along with foods containing iron and iron supplements. Calcium and zinc limit and compromise absorption of iron in the intestine. Observing a gap of 2 hours between consuming food items rich in iron and calcium/zinc can help prevent this interaction.
  4. Food products such as, nuts, legumes, berry fruits, and soy products contain compounds that limit iron absorption in the intestines. Avoiding intake of these food items on the same meal with iron rich foods and iron supplements, can help improved absorption of iron.