This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of iron-rich snacks in combating anemia among adolescent girls. The study will involve 100 girls aged 16-18 years with mild anemia (Hb 11-11.9 g/dL), randomly divided into an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group will consume two 25-g iron-rich bars daily for 12 weeks, while the control group will continue their regular diet. Hemoglobin and anemia status will be assessed to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. Data will be analyzed using SPSS, with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
100
The proposed iron-rich bar differs from previous interventions through its unique combination of locally available sesame seeds, roasted chickpeas, jaggery, and fenugreek, providing 2.9 mg iron per 25 g bar without pharmaceutical iron fortification. It is a low-cost, culturally acceptable, easy-to-prepare food-based intervention specifically designed for adolescent girls and combined with nutrition education.
University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Change in Hemoglobin Level (Hb)
Change in hemoglobin concentration (g/dL) from baseline to the end of the intervention comparing the iron-rich snack group with the control group by using Sahli's hemoglobinometer.
Time frame: 12 weeks
Anemia status
Anemia status assessed by Hb concentration (g/dl) using Sahli's hemoglobinometer, according to WHO 2024 criteria, cutoff of \<12.0g/dl for anemia in non pregnant females aged 15-65 years, mild anemia 11.0-11.9 g/dl, moderate anemia 8.0-10.9 g/dl, and severe anemia \<8.0 g/dl.
Time frame: 12 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.