03/08/2025
Surprising Signs of Anemia – and Their Natural Solutions
Anemia is a condition when your body has a lower than normal level of healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin, which are essential for oxygen delivery. As a result, the body signals for help through various symptoms, which may seem minor, but can actually be a sign of a bigger problem.
🧠 1. Craving for Strange Things (Pica)
A persistent craving for ice, dirt, paper or chalk can be a sign of severe iron deficiency. This is an unusual sign of the body’s demand for iron.
👅 2. Sore or swollen tongue
If the tongue is shiny, swollen, painful or has small cuts on the edges, this is also a sign of iron deficiency.
🤕 3. Frequent headaches
Due to lack of oxygen, the brain is unable to get enough oxygen, which can often lead to headaches, confusion or dizziness.
🧤 4. Cold hands and feet
This is a sign that your blood flow is poor, especially in areas far from your heart.
😮💨 5. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath while climbing stairs or during light physical activity is a very common sign of anemia.
🧑🏻 6. Yellowing or pale skin
A slight yellowing or loss of color to the skin can be an indication that the hemoglobin level in the blood is low.
💅 7. Brittle or spoon-shaped nails
If the nails break easily or are spoon-shaped, it can indicate a severe iron deficiency.
🔄 Prevent or treat anemia: natural and dietary methods
🥗 Power foods:
Liver and red meat: provide the most absorbable form of iron.
Leafy greens: such as spinach, fenugreek, greens – these are rich in iron and folic acid.
Pulses and legumes: especially lentils, chickpeas, and beans – great alternatives for those who don’t eat meat.
Eggs and seafood: provide significant amounts of iron and B12.
Seeds and nuts: especially chia seeds, flaxseeds, and almonds – help with blood formation.
Vitamin C-rich fruits: such as mango, amla, and papaya – increase iron absorption.
🧘 Helpful habits:
Daily light exercise (walking, yoga) – improves blood circulation.
Sitting in the sun – produces vitamin D, which is essential for bone and blood health.
Drink plenty of water – hydration improves blood circulation.
Reduce tea/coffee intake – these inhibit iron absorption; it is best to drink at least 1 hour after a meal.
Deep breathing – improves oxygen levels, reduces fatigue.
✅ If you experience one or more of these symptoms frequently, it is best to get a blood test done.
Anemia is treatable, but ignoring it can lead to major complications.