Anaemia is one of the most common blood disorders and occurs when the number of red blood cells drops below the number of white blood cells.  This can cause major problems for the body as red blood cells contain haemoglobin which is responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues within the body.  A malfunction here can cause a variety of issues such as fatigue and stress to organs.  Anemia can be caused by many things, but the three main bodily mechanisms that produce it are:

• excessive destruction of RBCs
• blood loss
• inadequate production of RBCs

This situation can be caused by either heavy blood loss, the body’s slow manufacture of red blood cells or the destruction of red blood cells.  This loss of red blood cells can be caused by nutritional problems such as iron deficiency, inherited disorders, some drugs, some kinds of cancer and infections. 

Signs of anaemia are fatigue, dizziness, rapid heartbeat and irritability.

To increase iron content in the body eat plenty of apples.  Also stock up on foods containing vitamin B12 such as milk, fish, eggs and meat.  Vitamin C is essential to enable the efficient absorption of iron so eat plenty of citrus fruits and kiwi.  Avoid drinks such as alcohol, tea and coffee.  Alternatively take a good multi vitamin to keep iron levels up.