International Women's Day: Herbalife highlights nutrition

Jakarta – In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, the global nutrition company Herbalife Ltd. highlighted the double burden of malnutrition faced by women in the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia. The issue includes rising obesity alongside still-high anaemia among women of reproductive age. The topic was raised during the GiveToGain campaign held on 5 March in Jakarta.

“As a member of the Herbalife Dietetic Advisory Board working across cultures in Asia Pacific, I have repeatedly observed one reality: when women invest in their own health, the benefits extend to their families, workplaces, and future generations,” said Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead Asia Pacific, Herbalife, in a statement on Thursday.

“On the other hand, the Asia Pacific region faces a contrasting nutrition burden. Rising obesity among adults occurs alongside stunting in children and anaemia in women of reproductive age. Micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, folate, and vitamin B12 remain common, even though calorie intake is relatively sufficient.

“During menstruation, iron needs increase. Therefore, women are advised to consume iron-rich sources such as lean meat, lentils, legumes, green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals. This intake should be combined with vitamin C to optimise iron absorption.

“Lowered oestrogen levels in the 40s also increase the risk of sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass. Women are therefore advised to meet their protein requirements from fish, lean meat, dairy products, tofu, legumes and grains, and to undertake resistance training regularly.

“In short, long-term well-being is shaped by the daily choices we make long before worrying signs appear,” said Vipada.