Did you know that anemia is the most common form of malnutrition found in women of all ages? Anemia is caused by reduced levels of hemoglobin, which is the iron-containing protein that is responsible for delivering oxygen to the cells. When hemoglobin is low, the body is unable to burn off the sugar to produce energy.
Symptoms are varied and ranging and can include, weakness, vertigo, headache, tinnitus, spots before the eyes, loss of libido, amenorrhea, drowsiness, irritability and sometimes changes in behavior.
There are different types of anemias, and the treatment depends on its cause and severity.
- Aplastic anemia is a rare condition characterized by low levels of red and white blood cells and platelets.
- Hemolytic anemia occurs because red blood cells are destroyed in the liver and spleen faster than they are produced.
- Pernicious anemia relates to a decreased body store of vitamin B12. Vegetarians are more prone to develop B12 deficiency because this nutrient is found primarily in animal protein. Continue reading “Tired? It May Be Anemia”