Anemia is a deficiency in a number of red blood cells in the body and in the amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells, or in both.

Hemoglobin is the pigment composed of iron and protein, that carries oxygen to the body tissues. In case of anemia the size and shape of the red blood cells can also be affected.

Symptoms of Anemia :

• Paleness of the eyelids
• Paleness of the skin and mucous membrane
• Paleness of the lips
• Paleness of the fingertips
• Spoon shaped fingernails due to lack of iron
• Paleness of the gums
• Brittle hair
• Difficulty in breathing
• Weakness
• Dizziness

Causes of Anemia :

• Formation of an inadequate number of red blood cells or of defective red blood cells.
• Increased rate of destruction of red blood cells.
• Loss of blood

Red blood cells are formed in the red marrow of the bones. A number of substances are needed for their production especially iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid. When there is inadequate amount of this substances in the diet the marrow will either fail to produce enough red blood cells or it will produce defective ones.

Suggested treatment to help combat anemia is : A balanced diet, eating healthy foods especially those that contain a huge amount of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid.

Food Sources to Prevent Anemia : Lentil, soup, spinach, egg yolks, dried prunes, broccoli, turnips and whole grains(with hulls).

If the anemic condition persists, especially in the case of a pregnant women, consult your physician.