NUT3705
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 MAY 2025
, FINAL PORTFOLIO: THE IMPORTANCE OF IRON IN ADOLESCENT NUTRITION
SECTION A: Improved Literature Review and Presentation Text
A.1 Literature Review
Title: Iron and Its Role in Adolescent Nutrition: A South African Focus
Introduction
During adolescence, young people undergo significant physical and mental growth,
which leads to higher nutritional needs. Among these, iron stands out as a key
micronutrient vital for transporting oxygen in the blood, producing energy, and
supporting the immune system. In the South African context, iron deficiency is a
widespread nutritional issue, with adolescent girls being particularly vulnerable.
Discussion
Iron plays a vital role in forming haemoglobin, a molecule in red blood cells responsible
for moving oxygen to various parts of the body. When adolescents lack sufficient iron,
they may develop iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), which can negatively affect their ability
to concentrate in school, lower their physical endurance, and slow down overall growth.
Iron is available in two main dietary forms: haem iron and non-haem iron. Haem iron,
which is found in foods like meat and liver, is more easily absorbed by the body. In
contrast, non-haem iron, present in plant-based foods such as lentils, beans, and leafy
greens, is less readily absorbed. Many households in South Africa rely heavily on plant-
based diets, which may increase the likelihood of iron deficiency if not balanced with
iron-rich or fortified foods.
National data from sources such as the South African Demographic and Health Survey
(SADHS) reveal that more than 20% of girls aged 15 to 19 show symptoms associated
with anaemia. One of the key contributors is menstrual blood loss, which elevates the
need for iron intake during this stage of life. If these increased needs are not met,
adolescents may experience symptoms like tiredness, difficulty focusing, and greater
susceptibility to illness.
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 MAY 2025
, FINAL PORTFOLIO: THE IMPORTANCE OF IRON IN ADOLESCENT NUTRITION
SECTION A: Improved Literature Review and Presentation Text
A.1 Literature Review
Title: Iron and Its Role in Adolescent Nutrition: A South African Focus
Introduction
During adolescence, young people undergo significant physical and mental growth,
which leads to higher nutritional needs. Among these, iron stands out as a key
micronutrient vital for transporting oxygen in the blood, producing energy, and
supporting the immune system. In the South African context, iron deficiency is a
widespread nutritional issue, with adolescent girls being particularly vulnerable.
Discussion
Iron plays a vital role in forming haemoglobin, a molecule in red blood cells responsible
for moving oxygen to various parts of the body. When adolescents lack sufficient iron,
they may develop iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), which can negatively affect their ability
to concentrate in school, lower their physical endurance, and slow down overall growth.
Iron is available in two main dietary forms: haem iron and non-haem iron. Haem iron,
which is found in foods like meat and liver, is more easily absorbed by the body. In
contrast, non-haem iron, present in plant-based foods such as lentils, beans, and leafy
greens, is less readily absorbed. Many households in South Africa rely heavily on plant-
based diets, which may increase the likelihood of iron deficiency if not balanced with
iron-rich or fortified foods.
National data from sources such as the South African Demographic and Health Survey
(SADHS) reveal that more than 20% of girls aged 15 to 19 show symptoms associated
with anaemia. One of the key contributors is menstrual blood loss, which elevates the
need for iron intake during this stage of life. If these increased needs are not met,
adolescents may experience symptoms like tiredness, difficulty focusing, and greater
susceptibility to illness.
