Anemia also occurs when your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells, or there isn't enough hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is an important protein, which transports oxygen from the lungs to other cells in your body.
If
all these new scientific terms are confusing you it might be easier to
imagine the blood in your body as a transport system, where the red
blood cells are the vehicles and the oxygen is the passenger, who needs
to go work on your cells and organs.
If
you lose a lot of blood, or blood is being lost faster than new blood
cells are being produced, you may become anemic. Women are more likely
to develop anemia due to heavy menstruation, pregnancy or from bleeding
after giving birth. Blood loss from trauma, surgery or internal bleeding
caused by ulcers or other digestive disorders can also cause anemia.
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Types of Anemia
There are several different kinds of anemia. The most common one is iron deficiency anemia, i.e. you have low levels of iron or are unable to absorb iron easily. Other nutritional deficiencies cause anemia such as vitamin B12 deficiency anemia or folic acid deficiency anemia. In rare cases, anemia is caused by inherited blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia, Aplastic anemia, or Thalassemia.
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How to Tell If You Have Anemia
Anemia
isn't initially obvious. When you have mild to moderate anemia, you
will feel weak, be fatigued and experience shortness of breath. If the
condition is not detected early, more symptoms might develop such as a
racing heartbeat, dizziness, headaches, ringing in the ears and restless
leg syndrome. Additionally your skin and fingernails will look pale,
and you might have increased hair loss. As mentioned before, the best
way to tell if you are anemic is by getting a blood test.
Signs and Symptoms:
Mild Anemia:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Moderate to Severe Anemia:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Ringing in the ears
- Restless leg syndrome
- Hair loss
- Pale skin
Additional Signs:
- Pale or brittle fingernails
- Cold hands and feet
- Low body temperature
- Sexual dysfunction
- Cuts take longer to heal
- Inability to concentrate
Treatment & Home Remedies
Iron Pills
Since
the most common cause of anemia is low levels of iron, your doctor can
prescribe iron pills, or you can buy supplements over the counter at a
pharmacy. If one ingests too much iron, it can be toxic, and it is
recommended you consult your doctor regarding the correct dosage for
your age and weight.
Bananas, Honey, Almonds and Onions
The
good news is that not only are these foods delicious, but they are also
known for stimulating hemoglobin production. Start your day off by
combining bananas, honey and almonds in oatmeal or with muesli for a
nutritious breakfast.
Avoid Iron Blocking Foods
Certain foods need to be avoided close to meal times as they can prevent iron absorption.
- Red wine, black and green tea, grapes, all heavy in tannins
- Coffee, chocolate, and other caffeine laden foods
- Milk and calcium products
- Egg yolks, which contain the iron binding protein phosvitin
- Soy products
Vitamin C
This
super vitamin helps iron absorption. Vitamin C is found in many of
nature's colorful fruits and vegetables and is particularly rich in
oranges, strawberries, pomegranates or dates.
Eat Iron Rich Foods
Iron
can also be obtained through your regular diet and making healthy food
choices can only help. Here is a list of iron-rich foods, with choices
for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
Meat-eaters' options:
- Clams
- Oysters
- Fish
- Red meat
- Chicken liver
Vegetarian options:
- Fortified dry cereal
- Beets, lentils, and beans
- Spinach, or other leafy green vegetables
- Black molasses
- Dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and prunes
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