Hemoglobin is a component of the blood that carries oxygen to the cells of our body. The normal hemoglobin level in men is 13.5-17.5 g/dl and in women 12.0-15.5 g/dl. A condition in which this level decreases is called anemia. Here are the main reasons behind anemia, which many people dismiss lightly:
Deficiency of foods containing iron (Iron Deficiency): This is the most important cause of anemia. Iron is essential to produce hemoglobin in the body. When the iron content in the food we eat decreases, the body stops producing enough red blood cells. This can cause severe fatigue and anemia.
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Deficiency (Vitamin Deficiency Anemia): Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) are essential for the proper production of red blood cells. Vegetarians are more likely to be deficient in vitamin B12. Due to the deficiency of these vitamins, the structure of blood cells changes and they are destroyed quickly.
Excessive blood loss: Excessive blood loss from the body can cause anemia. Examples of this are heavy menstrual bleeding in women, chronic ulcers, and piles (Moola Vyadhi).
Worm infestation: Worms are the main culprits that cause anemia in children and rural areas. Parasites like hookworms that grow in the intestines absorb the nutrients and iron in the food we eat and constantly suck blood from the intestines.
Chronic diseases and kidney problems: Long-term kidney diseases and bone marrow disorders can lead to anemia. Erythropoietin, a hormone produced by the kidneys, stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. When the kidneys fail, this hormone decreases, leading to anemia.