Do you tire easily?

Do you have difficulty concentrating?

Are you always cold?

These are all symptoms of anemia, a problem that results when the cells of the body are not getting enough oxygen.

Anemia can be due to either a lack of hemoglobin, the substance that caries oxygen in the blood, or a shortage or red blood cells, the special cells in which the hemoglobin is packaged and carried throughout the bloodstream.

Vitamins

Vitamin B12 Several studies have shown that many people over fifty are deficient in this vitamin. A deficiency in B12 will cause of anemia, such as excessive fatigue, mental confusion, and difficulty concentrating.  Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, including meat and fairy foods, therefore vegetarians of any age who do not eat either meat and dairy products may be at risk of this form of anemia.

Vitamin C Although iron from vegetables, fruit, and grains is more difficult for the body to absorb, vitamin C can improve absorption of these foods by as much as 85 percent. Taking a vitamin C supplement can enhance the effect of the iron that you are already getting from everyday foods.

Folic Acid This B vitamin, which has been shown to prevent birth defects if taken during pregnancy, is also essential for the production of red blood cells, which will help prevent anemia. Folic acid is found in leafy green vegetables and whole grains, and is also available in tablets and capsules.

Minerals

Iron Now that so many of us are cutting back on foods like red meat and liver to reduce our fat intake, we are inadvertently also cutting our intake of iron. For many people, especially women with heavy menstrual periods, and iron supplement to prevent anemia is necessary

Herbs

Dong Quai rich in vitamins and minerals including B12, may help prevent anemia.

Chive vegetables are rich in vitamin C and iron a perfect combination, since vitamin C facilitates the absorption of iron. Chives should be eaten fresh.

Quinoa A grain native to Bolivia and Peru, it is now being grown in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is rich in all eight essential amino acids that form a complete protein, normally found only in red meat, eggs, and dairy products. Quinoa is much lower in calories and fat.

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