Effect of vitamin C as an iron-supporting supplement in adolescents with suspected iron deficiency anemia: Is it effective for increasing hemoglobin levels?

Abstract

Background: Anemia is a global health problem that affects adolescents, adults, and children in both developed and developing countries. Anemia in adolescent girls (10–19 years of age) is defined as a hemoglobin level in the blood of <12 g/dL. In Indonesia, the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in adolescent girls reaches 48.9%. Iron supplementation can be enhanced with vitamin C as a companion supplement. Vitamin C increases iron absorption in the body by reducing Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺, which requires an acidic environment for optimal dissolution and absorption. Aim: This study aims to assess the comparative effectiveness of iron supplementation with or without vitamin C in increasing hemoglobin levels. Methodology: An experimental design with consecutive sampling was conducted in September 2023 at Junior High School 1 Prambon, Nganjuk, East Java. The total sample consisted of 52 girls aged 12–13 years with anemia. The first group received iron and vitamin C, while the second group received iron only. Hemoglobin levels were  by the fingerstick method. Results: There were 32 samples (53.33%) aged 13 years. The average change in hemoglobin levels before and after intervention in group 1 was 2.238 g/dL with < 0.05, while in group 2 it was 0.661 g/dL with <0.05. The average difference in changes in hemoglobin levels between groups 1 and 2 after intervention was 1.303 g/dL with <0.05. Conclusion: Iron supplementation with vitamin C results in more significant increases in hemoglobin levels.