Natural Health

Anemia

Anemia results from a shortage of hemoglobin, the red pigment that carries oxygen in the blood. There are several different kinds of anemia but the most common form is iron-deficiency anemia.

A lack of iron in the diet is usually to blame, although heavy blood loss through periods, childbirth, gastric ulcers or surgery can also contribute.

Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, headaches and recurrent infections.

Dietary Advice To Avoid Anemia

It is essential to have an iron-rich diet. The best dietary sources of iron are red meat, liver, shellfish, pulses, eggs, brewer’s yeast, dried fruit, parsley and broccoli. Vitamin C helps the absorption of iron, so drink orange juice with your meals. Avoid or decrease the amount of tea and coffee you drink. Research shows that drinking tea or coffee within an hour of eating can reduce iron absorption by up to 80 per cent. You may need to take iron supplements, which come in various forms. Check with your GP if you think this may be the case.

Too much iron is dangerous, so take supplements only if they are necessary.

Complimentary Natural Remedies For Anemia

Nettles are an excellent source of iron. Add the leaves to soups and stews, cook them like spinach, or make them into a tea. Biochemic tissue salts can help with the symptoms. Calc phos 6x is good for children – give them 2 tablets 3 times a day. Ferr phos 6x is said to help and is recommended for women with heavy periods: take 4 tablets 3 times a day.

When prescribed by a qualified herbalist, herbal medicines can also help.

Recommended Ready Made Natural Remedies For Anemia

• AnemiCare (Homeopathy)
  FDA registered homeopathic remedy that increases iron absorption and normal hemoglobin levels to avoid iron deficiency
• Fatigue Fighter (Herbal/Ayurveda)
  Natural remedy to boost your intake of herbs that support healthy levels of natural energy and stamina