A common condition that is caused by a lack of adequate healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues is known as anemia. It is usually detected in routine blood tests. Hemoglobin is the main protein in the red blood cells that carries and supplies oxygen throughout the body. But people with anemia do not have sufficient hemoglobin, hence, their red blood cell count is low. It is one of the most common blood conditions in the U.S., affecting nearly 6% of the population. People, including children, with long-term diseases, young adults and women, are more likely to have anemia.

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of the condition but the other main types of anemia are aplastic anemia, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and vitamin deficiency syndrome. The possible symptoms largely include tiredness or weakness, dizziness, yellowing or paling of the skin, shortness of breath, increased thirst, sweating, lower leg cramps, a weak and rapid pulse, and other heart-related symptoms.

The main types of anemia are discussed in detail below:

• Iron Deficiency Syndrome
  One of the main types of anemia, it occurs due to insufficient iron in the body. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce red blood cells, leaving a person with this condition tired and short of breath most of the time. This deficiency can be corrected mostly by iron supplements and by increasing the intake of iron-rich foods in the diet.
• Aplastic Anemia
  Aplastic anemia is a condition that occurs when your body stops producing adequate new blood cells. The condition leads to fatigue, exhaustion, and the body is more prone to infections and uncontrolled bleeding. It is rare and can be either mild or severe. It can occur at any age. Treatments for aplastic anemia usually include medications, blood transfusions, or bone marrow transplant.
• Sickle Cell Anemia
  Sickle cell anemia is an inherited red blood cell disease where there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen in the body. In this condition, red blood cells are sickle-shaped or appear as crescent moons. People suffering from this condition can get temporary relief from symptoms through medication since there is no cure for it.
• Thalassemia
  It is an inherited blood disorder caused by reduced hemoglobin levels in the body. Mild thalassemia doesn’t need medical treatment but severe forms may require regular a blood transfusion. The condition often leaves the patient fatigued. Choosing a healthy diet and fitness routine can help patients cope with the stress caused by the disease.
• Vitamin Deficiency Anemia
  It can occur due to insufficient intake of foods containing folate, vitamin B-12, or vitamin C. Doctors treat this condition by prescribing supplements and other dietary recommendations. Vitamin deficiency anemia usually develops slowly over several months to years. The signs are subtle at first, but they increase as the deficiency worsens.

In most forms of anemia, following a healthy diet ensures that your body gets enough nutrients to make healthy blood cells. Healthy eating is also good for your overall health and is a lifestyle change one must adopt.