Iron is an essential mineral that works on producing red blood cells in the body. It also plays a vital role in forming many proteins, including hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to all parts of your body. Iron deficiency can cause Anemia, marked by low levels of red blood cells and reduced energy levels. However, iron-deficiency Anemia often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms are vague and nonspecific, so it's important to get tested if you think you might have iron deficiency or be at risk for it. Check out this article on preventing iron deficiency anemia! What is Anemia? Anemia is a condition where there are too few red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. There are many types of Anemia, but typically symptoms can include feeling tired and having trouble breathing after exercising. There are several possibilities when patients come in with symptoms of Anemia: Iron deficiency, folic acid deficiency, B12 deficiency, or because they may have leaky blood vessels that cause RBCs to die before reaching their destination. Read Food Poisoning: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Patients diagnosed with this disease may be given iron supplements, vitamin B injections, folic acid tablets for a short time until the patient feels better. If chronic cases occur, blood transfusions might be necessary because they can cause heart failure if not treated right away. Causes and Symptoms of Anemia Anemia is a critical condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry suitable oxygen throughout the body. This lack of oxygen can cause many symptoms, including fatigue and shortness of breath, and other common anemia symptoms. Anemia occurs for a variety of reasons, but it is typically treated using iron or other supplements. While severe cases require medical attention, most people can prevent Anemia by taking steps such as eating healthy foods and getting regular exercise. Read: How do thoughts and emotions affect your health? Anemia is caused by a low concentration of hemoglobin in the blood due to either decreased production or increased destruction of red blood cells. However, there are around 400 types of Anemia, three main types of anemias: acute, chronic, and iron deficiency anemia. Acute Anemia is caused by a sudden loss of red blood cells, often due to bleeding. This can be the result of trauma, surgery, or an illness such as stomach ulcers or cancer. Chronic Anemia is a low level of Anemia that develops slowly over time. This type can be caused by conditions such as kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, or cancer. Read Food Poisoning: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Among all, the iron deficiency anemia is the most common one and occurs if there is not enough iron in the body to produce hemoglobin. This can be due to dietary factors, intestinal problems that prevent absorption of iron, or blood loss. Symptoms of Anemia vary depending on the and type of Anemia. Generally speaking. However, common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, and a pale complexion. In severe cases, Anemia can lead to heart failure and even death. Read How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Health Risks of Anemia Anemia can lead to a number of health risks, including fatigue and weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, headache, pale skin, chest pain, and rapid heart rate. Anemia can also increase the risk of other health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, and pregnancy complications. It is important to get checked for Anemia if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. Treatment may include taking iron supplements and eating foods that are high in iron. If left untreated, Anemia can be dangerous. Hence, seek medical help if you are concerned about your Anemia. Read Low-grade Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, Prevention What to eat when you have iron deficiency Anemia? There are many different things that you can eat when you have iron deficiency Anemia. Some of the best foods to eat include beef, pork, lamb, chicken, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables, and fortified breakfast cereals.  You can also eat nuts and seeds, but you should avoid eating too many high-fat foods since they can interfere with your body's ability to absorb iron. If you are having a hard time getting enough iron from food alone, you may also need to take an iron supplement. You can also get iron from fortified cereals, bread and pasta, and peas. Read Natural Ways to Prevent Cold and Flu in this Winter It's also important to drink plenty of fluids, especially water when you have iron-deficiency Anemia. This will help to keep your blood flowing smoothly and help your body absorb the iron from your food. In addition to eating plenty of iron-rich foods, it is also important to make sure that you are getting enough vitamin C, which helps our body to absorb iron more effectively. So, be sure to include plenty of vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet as well. Read Breast Cancer Prevention: How to Cut Your Risk? However, if you are not a fan of red meat or seafood, there are plenty of other options available. Beans are a great source of protein and iron, and they come in many different varieties. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach are also high in iron. Dried fruit such as raisins and apricots are a good source of iron, as well as other nutrients. And finally, iron-fortified cereals, bread, and pasta are a great way to get your daily dose of iron. If you are looking for ways to increase your intake of iron, here are a few tips: - Pair foods that are high in iron with foods that are high in vitamins, which help our body to absorb iron from food. - Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals. These beverages contain tannins that can reduce your body's ability to absorb iron. Read Omicron: What we know about the COVID-19 Variant so far - Limit the amount of calcium you take in with foods and supplements, as this mineral can lessen the absorption of iron. Instead, try pairing calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products, with non-calcium-rich foods that are high in vitamin C. This way, your body will have an easier time absorbing both nutrients. Final words Iron deficiency is common Anemia that can be prevented with dietary changes. You may not know it, but your diet plays a significant role in preventing iron deficiency. Eating enough lean protein and vegetables will help you avoid this problem. However, if these lifestyle adjustments are proving difficult for you to make on your own, you may contact your doctor about supplementation or treatment options recommendations. Read ADHD in Children and Adults: Meaning, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment