Anemia caused by “iron-poor blood” is still the most common cause of anemia, a condition in which a lack of red blood cells causes oxygen deficiency in muscles. Blood loss can lead to anemia, so if you have a bleeding disorder, it is important to know the preventative measures you can take to prevent anemia.
Some of the effects of anemia include chronic fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, chest pain, cognitive dysfunction upon hemorrhaging, and in mild to severe cases of the condition, heart problems.
Anemia can also be a side effect of pregnancy, bleeding disorders and chronic disease such as hemophilia, hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS.
Here are a few tips for avoiding anemia. You may also use these tips to help replenish iron after anemia:
Increase your intake of iron-laden foods – Including green leafy vegetables, dried beans and peas, lean meats, citrus fruits and iron-fortified cereals.
Take iron supplements one hour before meals to increase the absorption rate – Or, take your supplement with a vitamin C supplement or orange juice, which has the same effect.
Steer clear of caffeine – Especially immediately before, or after, taking an iron supplement. Ingesting caffeine can decrease absorption by 50 to 60 percent.
Meet with a hematologist – To explore your options when it comes to preventing and treating anemia. Everyone reacts differently to treatments, so it is best to have a game plan that suits you.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic – Anemia: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/anemia/DS00321
Hemaware – Pumping Iron: http://hemaware.org/story/pumping-iron
Iron Rich Foods for Iron Deficiency Anemia: http://www.healthcastle.com/iron.shtml
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