The Gen Z generation is increasingly experiencing persistent anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency. “Vechernyaya Moskva” discussed with nutritionist, Candidate of Medical Sciences Daria Rusakova, why modern young people are more prone to this condition.
According to her, there are several key reasons why Gen Z individuals encounter B12 deficiency anemia more often than others. Among them:
- Inadequate nutrition: The majority of Gen Z individuals do not cook meals but order them from restaurants or delivery services, lacking the ability to control product composition and actual energy value.
- A diet high in processed and unhealthy foods: Chips, crackers, instant noodles, sausages, and hot dogs – all these products contain minimal nutrients, vitamins, and minerals essential for proper blood formation.
- Adherence to veganism and vegetarianism: These dietary approaches do not include the consumption of animal-derived protein, which contains vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency.
- Influence of social media: Bloggers and other popular online personalities influence Gen Z to choose specific products and dishes that are not healthy and do not consider individual human body needs.
- “On-the-go” eating: Modern youth prefer to replace full meals with snacks, the nutritional value of which is minimal.
“Therefore, if young people unexpectedly feel weakness, shortness of breath, increased fatigue, or experience a wobbly gait, they should immediately consult a specialist to choose the right therapy and adjust their diet,” reported Rusakova.
Due to Gen Z’s predisposition to B12 deficiency anemia, dry eye syndrome has also become more prevalent among younger individuals. The condition is increasingly encountered in people aged 15 to 25. Ophthalmologist Alena Shkatova elaborated on dry eye syndrome, its causes, and treatment in “Vechernyaya Moskva.”
Regarding what anemia is and what symptoms indicate it, “Vechernyaya Moskva” learned from therapist Olga Sukhareva.
