Photo: Anete Lusina

How can I stop my hemoglobin from dropping?

A doctor can determine whether you have anemia by a simple blood test. Common types of anemia can be prevented and treated by eating iron-rich foods. The best sources are red meat (especially beef and liver), poultry, fish, and shellfish.

newsinhealth.nih.gov - Avoiding Anemia | NIH News in Health

How can I make myself poop without a stool softener?

Eating at least 25 grams of fiber a day through sources such as vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Engaging in regular physical activity, such...

Last updated Mar 19, 2018

What is a healthy lunch to eat everyday?

Centering your lunch on protein and deep green vegetables is the healthiest way to go. Fresh spinach, albacore tuna, chopped almonds, tomatoes and...

Last updated May 3, 2022

Tasty breakfast juice melts 59lbs of wobbly fat

A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Promotion

Avoiding Anemia

Boost Your Red Blood Cells

If you’re feeling constantly exhausted and sluggish, you might have a condition called anemia. Anemia is a common blood disorder that many people develop at some point in their lives. Many types of anemia are mild and short term. But the condition can become serious if left untreated for a long time. The good news is that anemia often can be prevented and easily corrected by getting enough iron. Anemia arises when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. You may either have too few red blood cells, or they may be lacking in an iron-rich protein called hemoglobin. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen throughout your body, and hemoglobin is the protein that carries the oxygen. When the number of red blood cells or your hemoglobin level is too low, your body doesn’t get all of the oxygen it needs, and that can make you feel very tired. You may also have other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, pale skin, or cold hands and feet. The most common type of anemia occurs when your body lacks iron. This condition is called iron-deficiency anemia, and it often arises if you don’t have enough iron in your diet. Your body needs iron and other nutrients to make hemoglobin and healthy red blood cells. So it’s important to get a regular supply of iron as well as vitamin B12, folate, and protein. You can get these nutrients by eating a balanced diet or taking dietary supplements. Another common cause of iron-deficiency anemia is blood loss, which might arise from injury, childbirth, or surgery. Women of child-bearing age are at risk for iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss from menstrual periods. Women also need extra iron during pregnancy. Dr. Harvey Luksenburg, a specialist in blood diseases at NIH, says that if anemia isn’t treated during pregnancy, women can give birth to iron-deficient children. This lack of iron can affect a child’s growth rate and brain development. “Women who feel symptoms of sluggishness and fatigue may be iron deficient,” Luksenburg says. “Even if you’ve lived with it a long time, get it checked. I’ve seen startling changes when women were put on iron supplements. Some say they’ve never felt better.” Many people living with anemia may not realize they have it. They might have mild symptoms or none at all. A doctor can determine whether you have anemia by a simple blood test. Common types of anemia can be prevented and treated by eating iron-rich foods. The best sources are red meat (especially beef and liver), poultry, fish, and shellfish. Other foods high in iron include peas, lentils, beans, tofu, dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, dried fruits such as prunes and raisins, and iron-fortified cereals and breads. NIH researchers are studying how to treat rarer, more severe forms of anemia. Some types can be treated with medicines. Severe cases may require blood transfusions or surgery. If you don’t get enough iron from your food, ask your doctor about taking iron dietary supplements. The body absorbs iron from meat and fish better than that from vegetables. If you’re a vegetarian, consult a health care provider to make sure you’re getting enough iron. Making healthy lifestyle choices, including a nutritious, iron-rich diet, can help prevent common types of anemia so you can have more energy and feel your best.

Does acne go away on its own?

Most people have acne on and off for several years before their symptoms start to improve as they get older. Acne often disappears when a person is...

Last updated Apr 19, 2018

What is the deadliest man made chemical?

Novichok is a sophisticated nerve agent (nerve agents are a type of chemical weapon first developed by Nazi Germany) which comes from organic...

Last updated Jun 22, 2022

Tasty breakfast juice melts 59lbs of wobbly fat

A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Promotion

Which is better detox or cleanse?

Detoxing is more comprehensive and stricter in its approach. Goals of a detoxification plan include eliminating toxins, weight loss, and better...

Last updated Jan 22, 2020

Why are eggs a high risk food?

Eggs are one of nature's most nutritious and economical foods. But eggs can make you sick if you do not handle and cook them properly. That's...

Last updated Aug 28, 2020

Weird “juice ritual” removes 65lbs in weeks

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

Promotion

What does pineapple juice do for your vag?

Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin B, and fibre. Not only do these nutrients improve gut health, but they also help maintain your...

Last updated Mar 26, 2022

Traditional “juice” activates 24/7 fat-burning

A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.

Learn More »

Promotion

Is there a fruit that eats belly fat?

Apple. Fresh and crunchy apples are packed with healthy flavonoids and fibres that may help burn belly fat. They are particularly rich in pectin...

Last updated Mar 13, 2020