Anemic adults don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate amounts of oxygen to their cells. The causes of anemia in adults vary, but the symptoms and potential complications are similar no matter what the cause. Nutrition can have a significant impact on the development and progression of anemia, so consuming a healthy diet is critical for anyone at risk of this disorder.
Signs and Symptoms
Adults with anemia typically feel fatigued most of the time. Many anemics also develop a pale appearance and have cold hands and feet. Dizziness, mental confusion and headaches can also affect anemics. Some people experience shortness of breath or chest pain. People with mild anemia might not notice any symptoms at all, but as anemia gets worse, symptoms become more pronounced.
Causes
One of the most common causes of anemia in adults is an iron deficiency. Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, a vital component of red blood cells. Deficiencies of vitamin B-12 and folate can also cause anemia, since these nutrients are essential for red blood cell formation, too. Many chronic diseases can also lead to anemia, including sickle cell anemia, arthritis, AIDS, Crohn's disease, kidney disease and some forms of cancer. Women of childbearing age are at higher risk of anemia because of the blood loss that occurs every month during the menstrual cycle. Pregnancy and blood loss from injury or surgery can temporarily raise the risk of adult anemia.
Treatments
The treatment for adult anemia depends on the specific cause. Because of this, determining the specific underlying reason for the anemia is important before starting treatment. Anemia caused by a nutritional deficiency can be treated by supplementation with the missing vitamin or mineral. Treating anemia associated with disease requires treatment of the underlying problem. Some types of anemia remain untreatable, but proper nutrition is still essential, because poor nutrition can make symptoms worse.
Prevention
Consuming a diet high in iron, vitamin B-12 and folate can help reduce the risk of developing nutrition-associated anemias. Foods high in iron include meat, eggs, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables and dried fruit. Consuming foods with vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, along with vegetarian sources of iron can boost the absorption of iron. Meat and dairy products are good sources of vitamin B-12. Folate can be found in fruits, green vegetables and legumes. Some fortified foods, such as cereals and juices, may also contain these nutrients.
