Anemia is a health condition wherein the blood in the body becomes deficient in red blood cells or hemoglobin, which reduces its capacity to carry oxygen to body tissues. There are different types of anemia, the most common ones being anemia from iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, and folate (folic acid) deficiency. Individuals may be anemic from birth or develop it after contracting certain chronic diseases. However, poor nutrition is responsible for iron deficiency anemia.

Common symptoms of anemia

1. Fatigue
   Feeling too tired to manage daily activities.
2. Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
   Difficulty catching breath and breathing deeply.
3. Fast or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
   When the heart feels like it’s racing or skipping beats.
4. Pulsatile tinnitus
   This is a pounding or whooshing sound in one of the ears that may come and go.
5. Loss of appetite
   Feeling full without eating much or loss of hunger.
6. Headache
   Iron deficiency anemia can cause throbbing headaches.
7. Pale skin
   The skin starts to appear pale in color.
8. Chest pain
   A feeling of something heavy pressing against the chest.

Foods to manage anemia
One may be diagnosed with anemia following a physical examination. This exam helps a doctor uncover indicators of anemia such as heart murmurs, low blood pressure when standing up, slight fever, pale skin tone, and rapid heartbeat. While treatment options are recommended, proper nutrition is one of the best ways to manage anemia. One could add certain foods to their daily food regime to maintain healthy iron levels while simultaneously combating anemia symptoms. Here are ten nutrient-rich food items that are perfect to help manage anemia.

1. Legumes
   Beans, lentils, and chickpeas have high iron content and provide fiber and protein.
2. Leafy greens
   Collard, spinach, kale, cabbage, broccoli, and beet greens are rich in folic acid besides iron.
3. Tofu
   This plant-based protein is rich in iron and calcium.
4. Fortified cereals
   Many breakfast cereals are fortified with iron to help meet the body’s daily requirements.
5. Nuts and seeds
   Almonds, cashew nuts, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds are packed with iron.
6. Dark chocolate
   This is a tasty source of iron, but remember to eat dark chocolate only in small amounts.
7. Shellfish
   Sea animals such as oysters, clams, and mussels contain high amounts of iron.
8. Poultry
   Chicken and turkey are good sources of heme iron and other essential nutrients.
9. Red meat
   Beef and mutton are excellent sources of vitamin B12, which is easily absorbed by the body.
10. Milk and milk products
    These are good sources of vitamin B12 and help manage anemia symptoms.

Adding the aforementioned foods regularly to the daily food regime can help one’s body get the correct amount of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to help manage anemia. Moreover, exercising daily and drinking enough water is important. However, one must see a doctor to get appropriate recommendations specific to their individual needs. Please note that anemia might manifest in different ways from one person to another, so only a medical professional can provide personalized recommendations for managing the condition.