Anemia is a condition marked by a significant reduction in red blood cells (RBCs) or the hemoglobin concentration in the blood. This deficiency impairs the blood’s ability to transport oxygen efficiently, leading to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Causes of anemia vary, including nutritional deficiencies, genetic conditions, and chronic diseases. However, anemia can be effectively managed by addressing underlying causes and implementing appropriate nutritional and medical therapies. A well-balanced diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12 is crucial for managing the condition.
If dietary intake is insufficient, there are several supplements that can help fill nutritional gaps. Activit, for example, includes vitamins and minerals that may support blood health and energy levels.
With these multifaceted strategies, anemia patients can significantly improve their overall health and well-being.
Key Facts
Symptoms of Anemia
The symptoms of anemia may range from severe to mild. Mild and asymptomatic cases can easily go unrecognized. Early signs of developing anemia include headache, irritability, constipation, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating.
Individuals with established anemia may experience weakness, fatigue, depression, dizziness, coldness of extremities, pale lips, brittle nails, pale eyelids, and cessation of menstruation in women. Anemia can also cause fatigue, which results in a loss of libido in both men and women.
To manage asthma symptoms, balanced nutrition is key. Several supplements are available that provide essential vitamins and minerals, which may help support energy levels and overall health. Combining a healthy diet with supplements like Activit may help manage general wellness and energy levels.
Types of Anemia
1. Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of all anemias, affecting 50% of cases.
RBCs have a lifespan of 90 to 120 days and are essential for oxygenating the body. Iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin – the component of RBCs responsible for carrying and transporting oxygen to body cells. When iron levels are insufficient, RBCs are compromised and may result in iron deficiency anemia.
There may be several reasons for iron deficiency anemia, including:
1. Inadequate iron intake or absorption from diet.
2. Severe blood loss, such as during an accident.
3. Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, or cancer can cause menorrhagia in women (heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding).
4. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) used by women for contraception can cause mild to heavy bleeding, leading to anemia.
5. Irritation in the digestive tract and successive blood loss due to anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can increase the risk of developing anemia.
6. Excessive aspirin usage, particularly among older adults, can lead to internal bleeding.
To maintain healthy iron levels and support blood health, supplements can help bridge nutritional gaps. By incorporating a supplement like Activit into your routine, you can help manage iron levels in your body.
2. Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia is a rare blood disorder that affects more than 100,000 people in the United States (mainly of African-American and Mediterranean descent). In this condition, RBCs become brittle and crescent-shaped, clogging blood vessels and leading to painful episodes.
Clogged RBCs also cause painful swelling of hands and feet, fever, fatigue, and pneumonia-like symptoms.
3. Pernicious Anemia
Approximately 151 out of every 100,000 people experience pernicious anemia in the United States (predominantly aged 60 to 80 of Northern European descent).
Pernicious anemia is a severe type of anemia resulting from vitamin B12 deficiency. It is primarily caused by autoimmune disease and genetic factors. In this condition, individuals cannot absorb vitamin B12 from the gastrointestinal tract; this malabsorption can cause pernicious anemia.
If B12 levels drop too far, this can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, indigestion, diarrhea, and anemia, ultimately resulting in neurological damage. This disorder can also be caused by Crohn's disease, gastric surgery, poor diet, gastrointestinal infections, and strict vegetarianism.
Anemia: Diagnosis and Treatment
Anemia Diagnosis
If anemia is suspected, a thorough investigation should be done to determine the underlying cause.
Physicians suggest a complete blood count (CBC) to count the number of RBCs and hemoglobin levels. Normal hemoglobin levels in adult men range between 14 and 18 grams per deciliter (g/dL); in women, they are 12 to 16 grams per deciliter (g/dL).
Healthcare providers may also perform an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or a test to determine the size and shape of RBCs if anemia persists even after consuming sufficient dietary iron. This way, they can detect and treat any hidden inflammation in the body.
Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
1. Supplements
Commonly, iron supplements are recommended for iron-deficient individuals. Before taking iron supplements, it is crucial to take a complete blood test to detect iron deficiency because excessive iron intake can be harmful. Consuming higher iron quantities can damage the liver, pancreas, and heart. Also, it can impair immune cell functions and increase the risks of cancer.
Activit, with its carefully selected ingredients, includes iron in the form of ferrous bisglycinate, a more bioavailable form that is easier for the body to absorb. Additionally, Activit contains a precise concentration of iron, ensuring safe and effective support for healthy blood production.
As with any supplement, iron should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Regular blood testing is important to monitor the effects of iron supplements on the body.
2. Dietary Sources of Iron
Plant-based sources of iron include apples, bananas, broccoli, kelp, leafy greens, plums, purple grapes, raisins, rice bran, turnip greens, yams, peas, parsley, asparagus, apricots, whole grains, okra, and prunes.
Also, including iron-rich foods such as meat, fish, poultry, and cereals can help increase iron levels in the body.
3. Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can interfere with iron absorption, so they should be consumed in moderation or avoided altogether while taking iron supplements.
For instance, spinach, Swiss chard, beans, almonds, cocoa, cashews, rhubarb soda, sorrel, kale, and most nuts and beans contain oxalic acid that inhibits iron absorption.
Animal proteins such as casein, egg whites, whey, and soy proteins have also been proven to inhibit iron absorption in humans. Further, food additives in ice cream, soft drinks, candy bars, and beer can also hinder iron absorption.
4. Additional Recommendations
Fiber-rich food adds bulk to stool and helps it move faster through the intestines. Therefore, it is good to avoid iron supplements or an iron-rich diet while consuming fiber.
Coffee and tea should also be avoided as they contain phenols and tannins, which interfere with iron absorption.
5. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Smoking can decrease the body’s ability to absorb iron from food. Therefore, it is important to avoid tobacco and minimize exposure to secondhand smoke to maintain optimal iron levels.
Furthermore, avoid taking calcium, vitamin E, antacids, or zinc with iron supplements, as these nutrients can interfere with iron absorption. You should also minimize your exposure to toxic metals, such as lead.
Herbal Approaches to Anemia Management
A healthy diet with iron-rich food can help control, if not cure, anemia.
Precautions:
Goldenseal should not be consumed internally daily for more than a week. Also, oregon grape root and goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, especially if you are allergic to ragweed.
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, or diabetes, should only consume goldenseal under a doctor's supervision.
Important Considerations
The human body effectively recognizes and absorbs iron in heme form, which is naturally found in animal sources. Non-heme iron, mainly found in plant-based food, takes more time to absorb in the body.
Thus, the fastest way to restore iron in the body is by consuming meat (beef and poultry), seafood, and iron supplements. You can also consider a supplement like Activit, which contains iron in bioavailable ferrous bis-glycinate form along with vitamin C, a combination known for enhancing iron absorption.
Women ages 19 and 50 should get 18 milligrams (mg) of iron daily, while men ages 19 and above and women ages 51 and older need 8 mg daily.
1. High Iron Foods
Beans, rice bran, dried peaches, prune juice, lentils, mustard greens, liver (from organically raised animals), black strap molasses, and raw beet greens are among foods containing over 5 mg of iron per average serving.
2. Moderately High-Iron Food
Dates, lean meat (lamb, veal), chili, cooked spinach, cooked beet greens, peas, and cooked dried apricots contain moderately high iron content, ranging from 3 to 5 mg.
3. Enhancing Iron Absorption
To maximize iron absorption, eat fish along with vegetables containing iron content and include vitamin C-rich food in your diet to increase iron absorption.
4. Addressing Anemia
To manage anemia effectively, address the underlying cause, ensure adequate nutrient intake, and attend regular checkups. Iron deficiency anemia should disappear once the underlying cause is corrected and iron supplements are taken.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is the primary cause of pernicious anemia. Healthcare providers measure serum B12 through blood cell count and the Schilling test to detect it. It can be treated by consuming vitamin B12 sublingually, taking injections, or using retention enemas.
While there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, some drugs can alleviate symptoms. For instance, a cancer drug, hydroxyurea (Droxia), is sometimes prescribed to those who are over the age of eighteen, suffering from sickle cell anemia, and experiencing three or more crises within one year.
Recommendations for Children
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children under one year old should not be given cow’s milk. That is because, cow’s milk does not provide enough iron, can interfere with iron absorption, and can potentially cause internal bleeding.
Many studies also found that the blood content of infants' stools increased fivefold when they consumed cow’s milk instead of infant formula milk, causing significant iron loss.
To Sum Up
With a holistic approach, anemia can be managed through proper diagnosis, addressing root causes, and following suitable dietary and medical treatments. A good focus on the specific type of anemia and tailored treatment is needed for effective management.
By implementing targeted therapies, patients can achieve significant improvements in their conditions. Additionally, regular checkups and tailored nutrition plans can significantly enhance the health and well-being of affected individuals.
References:
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11. A healthy diet is the key to getting the iron you need. Harvard Health. (2015, February 12). https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/healthy-diet-key-getting-iron-need-201502127710#:~:text=They%20also%20need%20to%20get,need%208%20mg%20a%20day.
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