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Anemia

Anemia refers to the decrease in the amount of hemoglobin found in red blood cells. There are different types of anemia, all with similar symptoms but different causes. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosed type of Anemia. A physician should be consulted for treatment options. Symptoms of Anemia include weakness, fatigue, pale skin, increased heart rate, and weight loss.

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

This is the most common cause of anemia. Iron is needed for hemoglobin (Hb) production and is mostly stored in Hb molecules in the body. Causes of this type of anemia include:

  • Diets low in iron
  • Chronic blood loss
  • Body changes (growth, pregnancy, etc )
  • Astrointestinal tract abnormalities and diseases

Vitamin B12 (B12) Deficiency Anemia

Vitamin B12 is essential for normal nervous system function and blood cell production. Main sources of B12 include meat, eggs, and dairy products. Causes of this type of anemia include:

  • Diet low in Vitamin B12
  • Chronic alcoholism
  • Intestinal Malabsorption disorders
  • Pernicious anemia (caused by the absence of a protein present in the stomach that binds to B12 and allows for its absorption)
  • Folic Acid Deficiency Anemia (FADA)

Folic acid is necessary for growth ,cellular repair and is essential for the formation of red blood cells. FADA mostly affects women over 30. Causes of this type of anemia include:

  • Advanced age
  • Illness
  • Alcoholism
  • Smoking
  • Diets low in folic acid
  • Body’s inability to digest foods with folic acid content
  • Birth-control pills & anticonvulsant therapy
  • Genetic Predisposition (MTHFR) gene.

Hemolytic Anemia

Sometimes Red Blood Cells (RBCs) are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them. Thalassemia -an inherited blood disorder- is a good example of a disease that can cause hemolytic anemia (for more information see “MedLabs Thalassemia Pamphlet”).

What tests can be carried out to detect Anemia?

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • Serum Iron
  • Serum Vitamin B12 levels
  • Serum Folic Acid levels
  • Serum Ferritin levels

Other tests (optional):

  • MTHFR(genetic predisposition)
  • Parietal Cell Antibodies
  • Intrinsic Factor Antibodies
  • Hb Pattern Analysis

What to eat when suffering from Anemia?

  • Vitamin C (enhances iron and folate absorption)
  • Iron-rich foods: meat, chicken, fish, shellfish
  • Beta-carotene-rich foods: carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, squash, apricots, cantaloupe
  • Folic Acid rich foods: asparagus, beets, broccoli, avocados, spinach, beans, chickpeas, lentils, oranges, peas, turkey, cabbage
  • Vitamin B12 rich foods: beef, trout, crab, oysters, tuna, yogurt
  • Vitamin B6-rich foods: sweet potatoes, avocados, bananas, mangoes, brown rice, chicken, tuna, chickpeas, salmon, turkey, barley

FAQs

What foods should be avoided by people with anemia?

People with anemia are advised to avoid certain foods and drinks that may reduce iron absorption in the body, including:

  • Carbonated drinks, coffee, and tea: Contain caffeine and tannins, which reduce iron absorption.

  • Foods high in calcium in large amounts such as milk and cheese when eaten with iron-rich meals, because calcium can inhibit iron absorption.

  • Processed and fried foods: They lack essential nutrients and can increase body inflammation.

  • Soy products and some whole grains in large amounts: They contain compounds called “phytates” that reduce iron absorption.

🔹 Tip: It is recommended to eat iron-rich foods such as liver, red meat, lentils, and spinach, along with vitamin C sources like oranges and tomatoes to enhance absorption.

What are the symptoms of anemia?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of anemia, but the most common include:

  • Fatigue and general weakness

  • Pale skin or lips

  • Shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Frequent headaches

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Brittle nails and hair loss in some cases