Anemia is a condition when there is a shortage of red blood cells. When the body doesn’t get enough iron to turn into hemoglobin, the red blood cells can’t transfer oxygenated blood to the body. This can result in many side-effects.
Since red meat is the best source for iron, vegans and vegetarians are the most susceptible to this condition. Blood donors, especially women also get this condition very often.
Signs of iron deficiency
Iron deficiency means that the cells can’t get the oxygen supply they need in order to function properly. The symptoms can be either mild or severe. Here are some of them.
Fatigue and weakness – sleeping longer than usually but still feeling tired might be a sign that your iron levels are low
Headache, dizziness and feeling light-headed – when your brain doesn’t get the amount of oxygen it needs you might feel dizzy or light-headed. This could even cause you to faint.
Shortness of breath – If you get tired from doing even the easies tasks such as climbing the stairs, you might need more iron.
Frequent infections – Do your wounds take longer to heal? Or do they get easily infected? This could be a sign of low hemoglobin levels.
Cold feet and hands – When your fingers and toes are cold all the time and if your nails are purple this is an alarm that you suffer from iron deficiency.
Brittle hair and nails – if your nails and hair break easily, you should eat more foods rich in iron.
Accelerated heartbeat – when your body lacks oxygen the heart works faster causing it to pound more than it usually does.
Unusual cravings – If you crave sugar or things that are not edible such as chalk or dirt, check your iron levels
Restless leg syndrome – in many cases people who lack iron have this condition
Chest ache – Despite being an indicator of iron deficiency, chest ache could be a symptom of cardiac arrest
What to do next?
-Include more meat, eggs, fish, leafy greens, milk and bread in your diet.
-Taking iron supplements is also advised. However you must consult your physician to confirm your lack of iron prior to taking these supplements.