KEY POINTS:
Massey University research into whether kiwifruit in breakfast cereal can combat iron deficiency in women has been given a boost with a $5000 grant.
Dietician Kathryn Beck and her supervisor, Cath Conlon, from the Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health in Auckland, received one of two research grants awarded by the New Horizon Women Trust this week.
Ms Beck told Massey News lack of iron was the world's most common nutritional deficiency and young women were particularly at risk.
"Iron deficiency can cause fatigue, decreased cognitive functioning and reduced work capacity," she said.
Eighty-nine participants with mild iron deficiency were being provided with a four-month breakfast programme combining cereal with different fruits to assess the impact on iron levels.
Ms Beck said dietary intervention was recommended as the first treatment for iron deficiency.
This could include using iron rich foods or foods high in vitamin C, such as kiwifruit, which increase the absorption of iron.
The Wellington-based trust provides grants for women to develop their academic and research potential.
- NZPA
