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The best way to prevent iron deficiency anemia is to pay attention to your diet. In particular, try to do the following:
- Eat foods that are good sources of iron. Foods that are high in iron include red meat, spinach, legumes, shellfish, turkey, and quinoa.
- Eat foods that help with iron absorption. Vitamin C can help your body absorb iron. Foods that are good sources of vitamin C include guavas, kiwis, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lemons, strawberries, oranges, and kale.
- Limit coffee and tea at meal times. These beverages may make it harder for your body to get the iron you need from your food.
- Pay attention to calcium pills. Calcium can interfere with your bodys ability to absorb iron. If you take calcium pills, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure you are getting enough calcium and iron.
- Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any iron supplements, because these supplements can have certain side effects.
What else can cause anemia?
There are several different types of anemia, and each can have different causes. Some of the most common causes are:
Low iron intake. Not getting enough iron in your diet can lead to anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can also develop if your body does not absorb iron properly, which can happen with certain conditions, such as Crohn’s disease.
Internal bleeding. Ulcers, colon polyps, gastritis, and other conditions can cause internal bleeding that leads to anemia.
Pregnancy. If you do not increase your intake of folic acid and iron while you are pregnant, you may be at a higher risk for anemia.
Low levels of vitamin B12. You may be at a higher risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency if you’re vegan or if your body doesn’t absorb the vitamin properly. You need vitamin B12 to make red blood cells.
Bone marrow diseases. Diseases that affect your bone marrow, such as leukemia, can impact your bodys production of red blood cells.
Genetics. Some types of anemia, including sickle cell disease and thalassemia, are inherited.
Chronic diseases. Some chronic diseases, including kidney disease, certain autoimmune conditions, and HIV, can lead to anemia.
The bottom line
Heavy periods can cause iron deficiency anemia because of the amount of blood thats lost. In most cases, this type of anemia can be treated, either by addressing the underlying cause of heavy periods or through supplemental iron or hormonal birth control.
If you have symptoms of iron deficiency anemia or heavy periods, make an appointment to talk to your healthcare provider. They can diagnose the cause and work with you to find the treatment that works best for you.
