- An iron-rich diet is the most effective preventive strategy for iron deficiency anemia because it directly replenishes the body’s iron stores necessary for hemoglobin synthesis.
- Iron deficiency anemia primarily results from inadequate iron intake or increased iron loss.
- Supplementing vitamin B12 or folic acid addresses other types of anemia but does not correct iron deficiency.
- Regular blood transfusions are reserved for severe cases and do not prevent anemia onset.
- Therefore, ensuring adequate dietary iron intake is fundamental in prevention and maintaining normal erythropoiesis.

Reference: Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 23rd Edition, Chapter: Anaemia, Page 574.