Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Anemia. Let’s dive in!
Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient red blood cells, and it can be a warning sign of a more serious underlying disease. That’s why identifying the cause of anemia and receiving proper treatment is crucial.
A thorough medical examination is essential to determine the exact cause of anemia. If left untreated or if treatment is delayed, it can lead to severe consequences. Anemia treatment varies depending on its cause. While taking iron supplements is commonly recommended, consuming foods that help with anemia can be an effective way to prevent it in advance.
Anemia occurs when the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin concentration in the blood is lower than normal. Since red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, a lack of them can result in insufficient oxygen supply to cells, leading to symptoms such as dizziness.
Causes of Anemia
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Iron Deficiency Anemia: This is the most common cause of anemia. It occurs when there is insufficient iron in the body, leading to reduced hemoglobin production and lower red blood cell production in the bone marrow. It is more prevalent in women. Iron deficiency can result from inadequate iron intake, ulcers, polyps, or cancer.
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Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This type of anemia can be caused by digestive disorders that affect the absorption of vitamin B12.
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Aplastic Anemia: This occurs when bone marrow function declines, which may be due to pregnancy or autoimmune diseases.
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Hemolytic Anemia: This happens when red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are produced. It can be caused by blood disorders or the use of certain antibiotics.
Other factors that can contribute to anemia include side effects from iron supplements, premenstrual conditions in women, and uterine fibroids.
Complications of anemia can include arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), congestive heart failure, and cognitive impairment. If left untreated, anemia can interfere with daily life and lead to various complications.
Symptoms of Anemia
- Dizziness
- Pale skin
- Chest pain
- Pale inner eyelids
- Easy bruising without a clear reason
- Chronic fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Brittle and cracked nails
- Dry and brittle hair
- Cognitive impairment
- Tingling in the arms and legs
- Nausea, chills, vomiting
The most common symptom of anemia is dizziness, often accompanied by sudden feelings of lightheadedness.
Additionally, individuals with anemia may have pale skin, lack of color in their face, and chest pain. Checking the inside of the lower eyelid—if it appears very pale and lacks redness—can also be an indication of anemia.
Other symptoms include unexplained bruising, extreme fatigue, weakness, and difficulty engaging in outdoor activities. Some may also experience shortness of breath.
When oxygen and blood flow to the brain are reduced due to anemia, headaches, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat may occur.
Iron deficiency anemia can cause brittle and cracked nails, as well as dry, breakable hair.
Other symptoms may include cognitive impairment, tingling in the limbs, nausea, chills, and vomiting.
Foods That Help with Anemia
1) Lotus Root
Among root vegetables, lotus root is particularly beneficial for anemia.
Since lotus root grows in the mud, it absorbs a high amount of iron and various minerals, making it effective in treating anemia. Additionally, it is rich in lecithin, a component involved in the production of brain neurotransmitters, which can help improve brain function.
The mucin found in lotus root (a sticky substance released when sliced) protects the stomach lining, helping to prevent gastritis. It also slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates, making it a recommended food for people with diabetes or high cholesterol.
To maximize the benefits of lotus root for anemia, it is best to eat it with foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits.
Since vitamin C can increase the absorption of plant-based iron by up to 30%, drinking orange juice with an iron supplement or blending fresh lotus root with oranges is an excellent way to enhance iron absorption.
2) Perilla Leaves
Among leafy vegetables, perilla leaves are one of the best choices for anemia.
Studies have shown that perilla leaves can inhibit stomach cancer cell growth by 97%. Long-term anemia can lead to digestive issues, and perilla leaves help support digestive health.
Perilla leaves contain 2.9 mg of iron per 100 g and 12 mg of vitamin C.
It is recommended to consume around 20 perilla leaves per day. However, since they are high in potassium, individuals with kidney disease should consume them in moderation.
3) Beef
Among meats, beef is the best option for anemia.
Beef contains 2.6 mg of iron per 100 g and provides heme iron, which is more easily absorbed than plant-based iron. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with severe anemia or those who have difficulty absorbing nutrients.
Protein is essential for the bone marrow to produce blood, and vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation. Since the human body cannot produce vitamin B12 on its own, it must be obtained through diet.
4) Blood Cockles (Ark Shells)
Among seafood, blood cockles are one of the best shellfish for anemia.
Blood cockles contain a high amount of hemoglobin, with 5.0 mg of iron per 100 g. They are also rich in protein, folic acid, vitamin B12, taurine, and amino acids.
For individuals with high cholesterol, consuming blood cockles instead of beef may be a healthier alternative.
Precautions When Consuming Iron-Rich Foods
After eating foods high in iron, it is best to avoid drinking coffee or tea immediately.
Caffeinated drinks like coffee and black tea can inhibit the absorption of iron and essential minerals in the body. Therefore, if you take iron-rich foods or supplements, it is advisable not to consume coffee or tea right after meals.
Today, we explored the early symptoms of anemia, causes of iron deficiency anemia, and foods that help with anemia.
While anemia is often caused by iron deficiency, it can also be triggered by more serious conditions such as cancer or autoimmune diseases. If you experience symptoms of anemia, it is best to seek medical diagnosis before taking iron supplements to ensure proper treatment.
