In the United States alone, over 3 million people have anemia. Women and those with a chronic disease are more at risk. The condition occurs when there is either a lack of hemoglobin in red blood cells or insufficient red blood cells. An important protein, hemoglobin gives blood its red color and carries oxygen from the lungs to every part of the body. Without enough oxygen, organs and tissues will not be able to function at their highest capacity.

1. A PRIMER ON PREVENTING
ANEMIA
by Natasha Tiffany, MD

2. A Primer on Preventing Anemia
In the United States alone, over 3 million people
have anemia. Women and those with a chronic
disease are more at risk. The condition occurs when
there is either a lack of hemoglobin in red blood
cells or insufficient red blood cells. An important
protein, hemoglobin gives blood its red color and
carries oxygen from the lungs to every part of the
body. Without enough oxygen, organs and tissues
will not be able to function at their highest capacity.

3. A Primer on Preventing Anemia
Not all types of anemia are preventable, but there
are many ways to avoid vitamin and iron deficiency
anemia. Nutrition is crucial to prevention, especially
foods rich in iron. This includes leafy greens such as
spinach or kale, fish, lean red meat, beans and lentils,
and tofu. Certain foods help the body to absorb iron,
so it is also important to eat strawberries, broccoli, and
fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C. Drinking coffee
or tea with a meal can make it more difficult for the
body to absorb iron.

4. About the Author
A physician at Hematology Oncology of
Salem, Natasha Tiffany, MD, also teaches at the
Oregon Health & Science University School of
Medicine. She is an Affiliate Assistant Professor in
the division of hematology and medical oncology.