Dietary patterns and haemoglobin levels in female adolescents living in boarding schools in Tasikmalaya city, Indonesia

Introduction: Anaemia is prevalent among female adolescents with low dietary intake of iron-rich foods, which is considered a significant risk factor. This study investigated the contribution of main meals and snacks to the total dietary intake and haemoglobin (Hb) levels in female adolescents attending Islamic boarding schools. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 323 female adolescents residing fulltime in eight Islamic boarding schools in Tasikmalaya City, West Java, Indonesia. Data collected included dietary intake (total dietary intake, main meals, and snacks) and Hb levels. Results: The average Hb level was 11.9 g/dL, with 49.2% subjects being anaemic. The average total dietary iron intake in subjects with anaemia (6.7 mg) was lower than those without anaemia (7.5 mg). Anaemic subjects with dietary iron intake <80% Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) (50.5%) were more prevalent than those with dietary iron intake ≥ 80% RDA (39.8%). In anaemic subjects, the majority of dietary iron intake came from snacks (55.1%), whereas in nonanaemic it predominantly came from main meals (53.7%). A significant correlation exists between total dietary iron intake and Hb levels (p=0.011), underscoring the importance of adequate dietary iron intake. Conclusion: The finding indicates that total dietary iron intake contributes to increased Hb levels, therefore it is important to provide awareness regarding iron adequacy in female adolescents.