Anemia negatively impacts at least 3 million people within the United States. This blood disease also has many different forms. Some types of anemia are curable, and others can only be managed. The following material will provide basic information about anemia and anemia of chronic disease and how it can be treated.
What is Anemia?
People talk about anemia often in relation to feeling overly tired. But what is anemia? Anemia is a blood disorder that happens when a person’s body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells. The term anemia is a Latin word, with Greek origins, for “without blood”. When a person’s body lacks blood cells it means that they have some type of deficiency of hemoglobin, a red protein substance that has the task of transporting oxygen through the blood. Anemia can also occur when a person lacks iron.
Why do we need iron?
Iron is an element of hemoglobin and it gives blood the ability to carry oxygen. Iron is also responsible for making more red blood cells. Without iron, an individual’s body will not make enough oxygen carrying blood cells. This in turn will cause them various problems such as fatigue, chest pain or shortness of breath. All people need iron to alleviate anemia of chronic disease.
At-Risk Populations and Primary causes of Iron Deficiency
Anemia of chronic disease can happen to many different people. The primary reason for this deficiency has to do with diet. Other factors such as intestinal disorders, chronic diseases and even infections can also create an iron deficiency. Ailments such as cancer can even bring about an iron deficiency. Childbearing women and children are prone to develop this condition.
Symptoms of Iron-Deficiency
The general symptoms of iron-deficiency were previously mentioned. Other signs of this condition include cold hands and feet, pale skin, rapid heartbeat, a sore or inflamed tongue or a headache or dizziness. People can also develop pica-like cravings where they want to eat objects or materials that do not have nutritional value. An iron deficiency can also cause changes in a person’s mood and they may experience anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Conflicts with Food in Iron Absorption
Some foods are able to stop or reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron. Foods such as milk, sardines, broccoli, figs, cheese, yogurt, almonds, rhubarb, canned salmon, turnip greens and tofu typically prevent the absorption of iron. Gluten that is found in many grain-based products has also been known to slow the absorption of iron as well.
What is a natural treatment solution for iron-deficiency anemia?
Natural items that are used to treat iron-deficiency anemia include foods such as turmeric, vitamin C, sesame seeds, copper water, beetroot and pomegranate juices, dates, raisins and green vegetables. These food items will help your body to better absorb and process iron. You can also take natural supplements to help with this deficiency. You can use animal based heme iron supplements to treat this disorder. Vegetable based non heme iron can also be used to help cure this condition. To learn more about high-quality, professional grade natural supplements contact the Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center today!