What do you know about anemia? Benefits of dates, pistachios and almonds

Anemia is a widespread health condition affecting millions of people worldwide, across all age groups and regions. It occurs when the number of healthy red blood cells or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood is insufficient to meet the body’s oxygen needs. This deficiency leads to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and paleness, impacting quality of life and productivity globally.

It is also caused by other health conditions that impede the production of healthy RBCs by the body, or increase the rate at which the cells breakdown or get lost. Generally, symptoms of anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Anemia: types, symptoms, causes, and current treatments of the disease by Florinio In this article, Florinio explains the types, symptoms, and causes of anemia, stating treatments currently available, while stating that everything in the said article is for educational purposes and based on scientific contemporary studies worldwide; however, any diagnosis and treatment and prescription of medication for whatever disease must necessarily be conducted by medical professionals.

The most common symptom of anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms of this condition include:

Paleness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Headaches
Dizziness

Symptoms may vary from one individual to another. Individuals who have a mild form of anemia often show a few signs or no symptoms altogether.

The most common symptom of anemia is fatigue. Other symptoms of this condition include:

Paleness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Headaches
Dizziness

Symptoms may vary from one individual to another. Individuals who have a mild form of anemia often show a few signs or no symptoms altogether.

There are various types of anemia, and each of them presents particular symptoms. Here are some common forms of anemia:

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia, where very few red blood cells are produced because of little iron in the body. It may be due to the following causes:
Iron Deficiency Diet: Diets low in iron are a leading cause of the onset of iron deficiency. The iron obtained from iron-rich foods, for example, meat, is used to produce hemoglobin. A person who consumes insufficient amounts of iron to maintain their stores runs the risk of developing iron deficiency.
Blood Loss: The majority of iron in the human body is found in the blood; therefore, it goes without saying that any significant blood loss leads to iron deficiency. This might be from injury, birth delivery, or major and heavy menstrual flow. At times, slow and chronic bleeding because of chronic diseases or some sort of cancer causes iron deficiency.
Reduced Iron Absorption: Some individuals have impaired iron absorption due to conditions such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, or surgical removal of an upper portion of the small intestine.
Pregnancy: This is usually the most common cause, in view of the increase in the amount of blood in pregnancy and the relatively high quantity that will be required by the developing fetus from the mother’s storage.

Others:

Frequent blood donation
Endurance training
Medications causing irritation to the intestinal lining, like ibuprofen

These are the predisposing factors that cause iron deficiency anemia and its symptoms. People in certain groups are at an increased risk for iron deficiency anemia. These include:

Vegetarians: Those on a diet that excludes meat tend to have an insufficient level of iron. Thus, they should ensure that their dietary intake provides them with adequate iron. The consumption of beans or iron fortified cereals will compensate for the lack of iron found in plant-based foods. Vegetarians who consume fish and seafood should include shellfish or salmon in their diets on a regular basis.
Women: Because women and adolescent girls have monthly menstrual cycles they are at a greater risk for the development of iron deficiency.
Blood Donors: Anyone who donates blood on a regular basis is in jeopardy of developing iron deficiency due to chronic bleeding.
Infants and Children: Early birth and low birth weight can put an infant at risk of deficiency. If an infant does not consume enough iron in breast milk or formula, then he or she is at greater risk. Doctors can recommend adding iron-supplemented formula in a child’s diet if their levels are low while breastfeeding. Similarly, children experiencing growth spurts are at an increased risk of the deficiency. A child needs to have a diverse and nutritious diet to prevent deficiencies of the metal in their body.

Iron deficiency anemia often takes time to develop. Individuals may not realize they have it until symptoms become severe. In some cases, iron deficiency may improve without intervention as a person’s condition changes, such as after a woman gives birth. However, if someone experiences symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, they should consult their doctor. A person with iron deficiency may have some of the following symptoms:

General weakness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Extreme fatigue
Rapid heartbeat
Easily broken nails
Paler than usual skin
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Headaches
Cold hands and feet
Pain or inflammation of the tongue
Cravings for non-nutritive substances such as dirt, starch, or ice
Poor appetite, especially in children

One will generally have not more than the usual symptoms mentioned above in the case of mild iron deficiency anemia. In case iron deficiency anemia is left untreated, then other complications may well occur. Possible complications include:

Growth delays with developmental delays in infants and children
Cardiac issues: this includes but is not limited to heart failure and the enlargement of the heart as it works harder to compensate for deficiencies in the supply of oxygen.
Complications in pregnancy: this may include low birth weight of babies and increased chances of preterm delivery.

Iron deficiency anemia is usually treated by correcting two things: iron intake and the root condition causing this deficiency. Doctors prescribe iron supplements as a quick way to normalize intake levels of iron. Supplements are generally obtainable over the counter. The dosage and instructions concerning supplements must also be followed as excess iron is toxic and also causes liver damage. Furthermore, huge amounts of iron lead to constipation. Hence, the doctor may prescribe a stool softener or laxative to soften the bowel movements.

Additional treatment may also be needed if an underlying condition is found. Treatment for underlying conditions depends on the problem but may include additional medication, antibiotics, or surgery. Self-management includes increasing iron and vitamin C in diet. Iron-rich foods include beans, red meat, dried fruits such as dates, iron-fortified cereals, and chickpeas. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, and broccoli.

Whether one is managing alone or following medical advice, it has to be kept in mind that iron deficiency correction is an inherently slow process. Symptoms may show an improvement even within one week of treatment, but it may take several months or even more for the iron levels in the blood to hike.

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells. If an individual does not consume or absorb enough B12, their red blood cell count may be low. Some of the symptoms include:

Difficulty walking
Confusion and memory loss
Vision problems
Diarrhea
Glossitis, which is a smooth and red tongue
Weakness
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Nausea
Decreased appetite
Fatigue
Weight loss
Irritability
Pale skin
Rapid heartbeat

Some causes of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia includes the following:

Pernicious Anemia: In this condition, the immune system of the body attacks the cells in the stomach that produce intrinsic factor, a protein required for the absorption of vitamin B12.
Intestinal Conditions: It may be from the lining of the stomach, particularly in chronic cases or chronic gastritis that interferes with the ability to secrete intrinsic factor and stomach acids, which are very vital in vitamin B12 absorption. This inflammation may be brought about by conditions of autoimmunity-for example, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease-or it may be an effect of infection, including by Helicobacter pylori.
Surgical Procedures: Certain surgeries, such as gastric bypass or removal of parts of the small intestine, involve an anatomical rearrangement or removal of portions of the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, because of these anatomical changes, an individual has difficulty absorbing vitamin B12. Because of these anatomical changes, evidence shows that vitamin B12 deficiency following these types of surgeries is quite common, ranging in incidence from 13% to 60% of individuals.
Medications: Long-term intake of certain medications is another factor that could interfere with the body’s correct vitamin B12 absorption and, thus, be another precursor or inducer of the deficiency.

Several such medications that can cause poor absorption of Vitamin B12 include:

Metformin: This is a drug used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Proton Pump Inhibitors: The drug inhibits the production of acid in your stomach. You can use this when dealing with diseases of the stomach, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and ulcers.
Colchicine: You may take this medication for gout and Mediterranean fever.
Diet: Because of their dietary selections, those individuals who consume fewer or no animal products-like some vegetarians and vegans-exhibit the lowest intakes of vitamin B12. As a result, they have the highest risk for deficiency.

Treatment typically consists of vitamin B12 supplements to raise the patient’s levels to normal. The duration and type of treatment are based upon why a patient is deficient in B12. For patients who have developed a deficiency due to dietary problems, physicians may suggest oral B12 supplements as a means of treating symptoms. A patient could also seek advice from a nutritionist about incorporating more vitamin B12 into their diet plan. Vitamin B12 is abundant in foods such as:

Fish
Meat
Poultry
Eggs
Dairy products

The fortified foods that contain vitamin B12 include yeast extract, cereals, and some plant-based milks if an individual does not want animal products in their diet. Treatment for malabsorption conditions usually includes injections of B12 by a physician.

Since the vitamin is injected into the muscle, the body can absorb the vitamin without the digestive system being affected. An individual may be administered this vitamin initially with the frequent injections of some medicines. Some patients require this treatment throughout their lives, as this is how they maintain their vitamin B12 levels normal.

This is a blood disorder and is quite rare; it involves the failure of the production of new red blood cells in the bone marrow. It usually results from an autoimmune disease of the stem cells, even when one has normal levels of iron. Possible symptoms that may result include:

Fatigue
Infection frequency
Skin rashes
Bruising easily
Dizziness
Headaches
Irritability
Lightheadedness
Pale skin
Difficulty breathing

These are not mild symptoms, and for some individuals, heart-related symptoms can occur, such as chest pain.

Doctors have identified some of the following as possible causes for this immune response:

Exposure to benzene-a chemical used in the manufacture of plastics, synthetic fibers, paints, detergents, and pesticides
Exposure to insecticides
Non-viral hepatitis
Pesticides
Medications, including chemotherapy drugs and chloramphenicol
Hepatitis
Pregnancy
Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Cancer
Other infectious diseases.

In the majority of the cases of aplastic anemia, however, doctors cannot identify its cause. When the cause is not identified, doctors refer to this disorder as idiopathic aplastic anemia.

This is one form of anemia wherein erythrocytes are destroyed quicker than what the body can replace. Autoimmune diseases, infections, disorders in the bone marrow, and inherited diseases such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia can all cause different varieties of hemolytic anemia. Associated manifestations of hemolytic anemia may include the following:

Dizziness
Weakness
Jaundice
Dark-colored urine
Fever
Abdominal pain

The human body needs a certain degree of red blood cells to keep themselves going. These carry a complex protein, hemoglobin, which in turn binds to the iron molecules. It is these iron-carrying molecules that help in transporting oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. Several health conditions may lower the number of red blood cells and hence produce anemia. There are several types of anemia, and there is not any singular cause. In some patients, the exact cause of reduced red blood cells cannot be identified. The three major causes of anemia include:

1.Blood Loss:

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia, and it often arises secondary to blood loss. Blood loss can lower the amount of iron in the blood, leading to anemia. If blood is lost from the body, it draws water from tissues outside of the bloodstream to add to helping keep the blood vessels full. This excess water dilutes the blood and reduces red blood cell counts. Blood loss can be acute, meaning short-term, or chronic, long-term.

Examples of acute blood loss include surgery, childbirth, and trauma. However the most common cause of anemia is chronic blood loss. Chronic blood loss may be due to several disorders such as peptic ulcers, endometriosis, cancer, or other tumor. Other causes of anemia from blood loss include the following:

Gastrointestinal disorders: hemorrhoids, cancer, and gastritis (peptic ulcers and appropriate diet)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-aspirin and ibuprofen
Menstrual bleeding (heavy)

2. Anemia or Dysfunction of Red Blood Cells

Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue at the core of a number of bones. Its key function is to produce red blood cells. It manufactures stem cells which in turn develop into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Disorders of the bone marrow do exist. One example is the cancer that begins in those tissues: Leukemia.

The malignancy interferes with the body’s production of excessively many but very abnormal white blood cells. This disrupts the production of red blood cells. Bone marrow disorders can also cause anemia. For example, in aplastic anemia there are too few stem cells in the marrow. In some cases of anemia, red blood cells may not be able to mature and grow normally. That is what happens in people with thalassemia, an inherited form of anemia.

3. Destruction of Red Blood Cells

The average life of red blood cells is about 120 days. However, the body may destroy them even before they complete their normal lifetime in the circulatory system. It is through such destruction that red blood cells cause autoimmune hemolytic anemia. This is when the immune system mistakenly perceives red blood cells to be foreign substances and therefore attack them.

There are various forms of treatment for anemia. They all have the common purpose of raising the individual’s red blood cell level in order to increase the oxygen amount in the blood. The treatment required is related to the type of anemia. Treatments most commonly prescribed to cure different types of anemia are as under:

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Iron supplements and dietary changes; the doctor will find and treat any potential sources of the excessive bleeding.
Vitamin Deficiency Anemia: Dietary supplements can be helpful, and occasionally vitamin B12 injections.
Thalassemia: Folic acid supplements, iron chelation, and in some patients, blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants.
Anemia Due to Chronic Disease: The doctor tends to treat the underlying disease itself.
Aplastic anemia: The treatment for the disease includes blood transfusions and transplantation of bone marrow. Sickle cell anemia: The doctors generally prescribe oxygen therapy, pain medications, and intravenous fluids. Besides these, antibiotics, folic acid, blood transfusions, and hydroxyurea are also prescribed; the latter being a drug for cancer. Hemolytic anemia: Immun suppressive drugs may be the course of treatment or infection treatment or plasmapheresis to filter the blood.

Anemia can occur at any age, male or female, or ethnicity. However, some factors increase the chance of this type of anemia including:

preterm birth
6-24 months of age
menstruating
pregnant and childbirth
a diet that is low in vitamins, minerals, and iron
medications that irritate the lining of the stomach, which would include anti-inflammatory drugs
Having in one’s medical history a record of inherited anemia within the family, Having a disease that involves the gastrointestinal tract and negatively affects nutrient absorption in the body, Bleeding internally, Having chronic diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, heart failure, and liver disease.

A number of different tests can diagnose anemia, though the most standard is a blood test called a complete blood count, or CBC. When conducting a CBC test, a number of different aspects of the blood are measured including:

Hematocrit level, which is the volume of red blood cells compared to the total blood volume
Hemoglobin level
RBC count

A CBC will show an individual’s overall health. It will also aid the doctors in deducing whether further investigation is necessary due to some underlying conditions such as leukemia, kidney disease, etc. If the levels of RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit lie below the normal range, the person probably has some type of anemia. Yet, a healthy person can also show values out of this range. Though a CBC is indefinite, it helps the doctor with a good starting point to come to a correct diagnosis.

Many foods are high in iron. It may be easy for an individual to combine them and create delicious and nutritious meals that help increase iron intake. The following foods are very suitable for this purpose:

Fruits and Vegetables:

Watercress
Curly kale and other varieties
Spinach
Collard greens
Dandelion greens
Swiss chard
Citrus fruits
Red and yellow peppers
Broccoli
Beet greens, dandelion greens, and collard greens
Peas
Green beans
Sweet potatoes
Watermelon
Strawberries

However, some dark leafy vegetables also contain oxalates, which can inhibit iron absorption. Instead of relying solely on vegetables, individuals should obtain iron from various sources.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are nutritional powerhouses that contain healthy fats, fiber, protein, and compounds that support heart and vascular health. The following options are rich in iron:

Pistachios
Pumpkin seeds
Cashews
Hemp seeds
Pine nuts
Sunflower seeds
Almonds
Peanuts
Macadamia nuts
Sesame seeds
Flaxseeds
Hemp seeds
Pistachios: are also a very good source of iron. One cup of pistachios supplies young women with approximately a quarter of their daily requirement of iron that must be supplied by active intake. Pistachios have actually an impressive amount of absorbable iron, which has proved quite helpful in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in each and every human body. The iron value in this tasty nut is of great help in reducing fatigue and paleness due to anemia. Pistachios are also a source of the B1 and B3 vitamins and vitamin E, as well as such minerals as iron, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. It opens liver ducts, strengthens the stomach, and cures coughs. Iron absorption can be improved by taking in foods rich in vitamin C along with the nuts, such as citrus fruits and tropical fruits. Vegetarians should definitely use plant sources for the mentioned mineral since they cannot include meat products in their diet. For every 100 grams of pistachios, it contains 7.5 mg of iron, while daily consumption for an average person needs 4-5 mg of iron. This Akbari pistachio from Porfiro is not only full of these qualities, but organic, and from planting to harvesting, packaging, and right to its consumers, it has remained at standard levels, ensuring that it is free from any pesticide and chemical residues. It is also a very good option for anemic people since it has a natural and pure taste.
Almonds: Another good source of iron is almonds. One ounce of almonds includes almost 6 mg of iron, which is about one-third of the recommended intake by women and one-fourth for men. Apart from iron, almonds are a good source of other nutritionally essential elements in the case of anemia: vitamin C, vitamin B12, and folate. Vitamin C improves iron absorption in the body, while both vitamin B12 and folate play an important role in red blood cell formation. In case you suffer from anemia, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements. You can also get iron through your diet, and almonds are no exception in this regard. The Porfiro brand sells organic almonds of the same quality mentioned above in pistachios; you will never forget their genuine and delightful taste once you’ve tried them.

Meat and Fish

Animal sources, such as chicken and red meat, are the richest sources of iron to be absorbed. The World Cancer Research Fund suggests that to reduce the risk for colorectal cancer, red meat consumption should be limited to three servings per week, or 3 to 6 ounces cooked. Iron-rich foods include:

Beef
Lamb
Chicken or beef liver
Turkey
Chicken
Goat meat
Veal
Ham

Another source of iron is seafood. Seafood intake at all ages should be at least a minimum of two times per week. Seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids, in addition to various key vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and zinc. Species of fish that contain iron include:

Shrimp
Fish fillets
Prawns
Crab
Clams
Snails
Tuna
Sardines
Haddock
Salmon
Barramundi

Beans and Legumes

Legumes are plant proteins rich in fiber and quite a good amount of minerals. They are very good alternatives to red meat, as they are heart-friendly, and they contain very good sources of iron. The following are the good sources of iron due to the following food choices:

Peas
Black beans
White beans
Pinto beans
Fava beans
Lentils
Soybeans
Tofu
Chickpeas
Black-eyed peas
Lima beans

Dried Fruits

They are dense in dates, prunes, figs, raisins, apricots, dried peaches, and other dried fruits that might help improve sleep or increase the hemoglobin levels in the blood. Some of the benefits derived from them include:

Whole Grains

Whole grains contain fiber that helps promote healthy digestion and may lower the risk of heart disease. Iron-rich whole grains and fortified grains include:

Whole grain bread made with unrefined flour
Wheat products
Fortified white bread and pasta; Bran cereals; Oatmeal; Corn flour; Rye bread

The following substances impede the absorption of iron:

Calcium: While this is a needed mineral, intake of more than 300-600 mg impairs iron intake. Examples of calcium-rich food are dairy products, some fish, tofu, and figs.
Phosvitin- an iron-binding phosphoprotein in eggs, whereby one egg can reduce iron absorption by up to 28%. However, it was noted in a study conducted in 2022 that one egg per day does not affect the iron status significantly.
Coffee, Cocoa, Tea: Swedish cocoa, some teas inhibit the absorption of iron by 90%, and coffee by 60%.

They can easily suggest avoiding these foods totally, though these types of food are essential to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. But it may be a reasonable idea to consult with a doctor or dietician.

Meal Plans

Iron-rich food inclusion in the diet plan could easily help treat conditions related to anemia. The healthcare expert can suggest the type of food to select and how to improve iron absorption. The best diet for anyone suffering from anemia is one that is rich in iron and foods that enhance iron absorption. At the same time, every person should be cognizant of those foods that impede iron absorption. The following meal plan shows what type of healthy meals a person with anemia might have. Of course, special dietary recommendations will change depending on whether a person is suffering from iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin deficiency anemia, or another form of anemia.

Breakfast

Option 1: Unsweetened oatmeal with sprouted oats topped with raspberries or flaxseeds, served with a glass of iron-fortified orange juice.
Option 2: Breakfast hash made with chickpeas, chicken sausage, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Tea and coffee inhibit iron absorption and should not be consumed with meals.

Lunch

Option 1: Beef chili in a bowl or tuna burger with vegetables or legumes like spinach, beans, or chickpeas.
Option 2: Smoked salmon on a toasted bagel with cream cheese and spinach.

Dinner

Option 1: Lamb, boiled potatoes, steamed broccoli, and kale.
Option 2: Bean and chickpea stew with black-eyed peas, canned tomatoes, onions, red peppers, and garlic; topped with vegan or dairy cheese. It would be served with a side helping of vegan or dairy yogurt.

While adding iron-dense foods to one’s diet will help improve blood iron levels, most people with iron deficiency need to take iron supplements to achieve healthy iron status. In some individual’s gastrointestinal limitations hinder iron absorption such that iron treatments or other treatments must be implemented. A doctor will determine what the best course of action is for that particular individual. However, the following can maximize iron intake:

Do not drink tea or coffee with any meal.
Do not consume calcium-rich foods with your iron-rich food.
Consume foods rich in iron along with Vitamin C.

If one has tried changing their diet and the level of iron remains low, they should consult doctors or nutritionists who may advise on supplements. Many health professionals normally recommend supplement forms that contain iron salts, like ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous sulfate. Iron dosage recommendations are varied, and your doctor will determine the best form and dosage of iron to treat your particular case effectively.

Can a person with anemia lead a normal life?

Yes, most people who have anemia lead very normal and healthy lives after treatment. However, this disease condition can result in long-lasting or life-threatening effects-only in those cases where the anemia is severe, chronic, or untreated. Under such circumstances, arrhythmias and organ damage can take over.

Can it be told by looking into one’s eyes if a person is anemic?

A study in 2021 says that anemia causes paleness or color loss around the eyelids. However, there are many different reasons why paleness may occur, and only a blood test can confirm if one has anemia or not.

How does one treat anemia?

Anemia cannot be treated by oneself; one has to approach a doctor, who will inform one about the proper treatment, depending on the kind and serious phase of one’s anemia. If one has a mild form of iron deficiency anemia, a doctor might suggest treating it at home. The doctor will advise one to increase iron intake with vitamin C so as to treat it.

Is anemia permanent?

Anemia is usually of variable degree: mild, moderate, or severe. It may be temporary or chronic; the latter means that it persists for a long time and perhaps never fully resolves.

How long before anemia resolves?

How quickly anemia disappears depends on the form and severity of the anemia and the effectiveness of treatment. Typically, a person with iron deficiency anemia will need to continue iron supplements for a period of three to six months before the iron levels are returned to normal. For some people, anemia is a long-term, or chronic condition.

Which drinks are useful for anemia?

For this reason, orange juice and other juices that contain vitamin C are good choices. Other juices good for iron include prune juice, pear juice, and tomato juice.

How do you deal with the fatigue caused by anemia?

Anemia-related fatigue could be minimized by having enough sleeping time and consuming diets containing adequate amounts of foods rich in iron. Supplementation with iron might also help

Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells circulating in the blood. Circumstances like this mean that the oxygen levels being transported to the body would not be sufficient. A person suffering from anemia will feel exhausted or weak.

What are the types of anemia?

What are the types of anemia?

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Complications of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia

Causes and Risk Factors of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia

Autoimmune Conditions

Some Medications That Lead to Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia -negative

Aplastic Anemia

Causes of Aplastic Anemia

Hemolytic Anemia

Causes of Hemolytic Anemia