THE ROLE OF DIETARY HABITS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS

This article analyzes the role of dietary habits and physiological factors in the development of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adolescent girls on the basis of current scientific literature. Within a narrative review, data from World Health Organization documents, systematic reviews and randomized clinical trials were summarized. The analysis showed that the sharp rise in iron requirements during adolescence (rapid growth, expansion of blood volume and muscle mass, onset of menstruation) often coincides with a diet that is low in meat, dominated by non-heme iron and rich in inhibitors of iron absorption (tea, coffee, phytates, calcium). Heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding disorders, Helicobacter pylori infection and inflammation-related elevation of hepcidin further increase the risk. For early detection, serum ferritin should be assessed together with hemoglobin, while treatment should combine alternate-day oral iron dosing with dietary correction.