Association of Fiber, Vitamin C, and Iron Intake with Hemoglobin Levels

Background: Anemia is a prevalent health issue, especially among young adults aged 19 to 35 years. This study aimed to investigate the association between fiber, vitamin C, and iron intake with hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Methods: A descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted. Sixty-five respondents from RW 01, Tamarunang Village, Gowa Regency, were randomly selected to provide representative data for analysis. Results: Results indicated that 60.00% of respondents had normal hemoglobin levels, while 40.00% had abnormal levels. The mean fiber intake was 7.34 grams in the normal hemoglobin group and 14.07 grams in the abnormal hemoglobin group. The mean vitamin C intake was 55.98 mg in the normal group and 147.75 mg in the abnormal group. The mean iron intake was 14.27 mg in the normal hemoglobin group and 21.73 mg in the abnormal group. Most respondents did not meet the optimal daily requirement for vitamin C and experienced iron deficiency. Bivariate analysis revealed a statistically significant association between fiber intake and hemoglobin levels (p = 0.030), while no statistically significant relationships were found for vitamin C (p = 0.339) and iron intake (p = 0.231). Conclusion: Fiber intake is associated with hemoglobin levels, while vitamin C and iron intake are not. The findings underscore the need for improved attention to vitamin C and iron intake to prevent anemia among young adults.