Anemia (also spelled anaemia) is a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin in the blood, or a lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen. When anemia comes on slowly, the symptoms are often vague and may include feeling tired, weakness, shortness of breath, and a poor ability to exercise. When the anemia comes on quickly, symptoms may include confusion, feeling like one is going to pass out, loss of consciousness, and increased thirst. Anemia must be significant before ...

anemia

What-is-anemia

What is anemia 

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Anemia is a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells in the body. They carry oxygen into the body using a certain protein called hemoglobin. Anemia means that either the level of red blood cells, or the level of hemoglobin is lower than normal.&nbsp;

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When a person has anemia, his heart needs to work harder than usual to pump the necessary amount of blood and thus provide enough oxygen in the body.

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During increased physical activity or exercise, cells may not be able to carry enough oxygen to satisfy the needs of the body, and a person may get exhausted and feel unwell. Even breathlessness and rapid heartbeat when climbing stairs can be signals of probable anemia. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.elsevier.com/books/henrys-clinical-diagnosis-and-management-by-laboratory-methods/mcpherson/978-0-323-67320-4" target="_blank" data-ref="Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods - 24th EditionSearchSupportView Cart" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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Symptoms-of-anemia

Symptoms of anemia 

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Depending on the severity, symptoms of anaemia may include &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nyas.14092" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pale skin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weakness</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Easy tiredness</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Breathlessness</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position (orthostatic hypotension) – this can also happen after acute blood loss</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Common headaches</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rapid heart beat or palpitations</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Irritability</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Concentration difficulties</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of appetite</li></ul>

Types-of-anemia

Types of anemia

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Different types of anaemia include:&nbsp;<a href="https://bmjopengastro.bmj.com/content/9/1/e000759" target="_blank" data-ref="Iron deficiency anaemia: pathophysiology, assessment, practical management" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anemia due to folate deficiency (folic acid)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anemia due to iron deficiency</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anemia in chronic disease</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hemolytic anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Idiopathic aplastic anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Megaloblastic anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malignant anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sickle cell anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thalassemia</li></ul>

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Causes-of-development-of-anemia

Causes of development of anemia 

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Anemia can develop for many reasons, including:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nutritional deficiency – lack of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malabsorption – when the body is unable to properly absorb or use the nutrients in the diet caused by conditions such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, gluten intolerance and others</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hereditary diseases – such as thalassaemia or sickle cell anemia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia, in which immune cells attack red blood cells and reduce their life expectancy</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Diseases of the kidneys</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chronic diseases such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and tuberculosis</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bone marrow disorders</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blood loss – due to trauma, surgery, peptic ulcer, severe menstruation, cancer (in particular bowel cancer) or frequent blood donation</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Medicines and medications – including alcohol, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs or anticoagulants</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mechanical destruction – mechanical heart valves can damage red blood cells, reducing their life expectancy</li></ul>

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Treatment-of-different-types-of-anemia

Treatment of different types of anemia 

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After diagnosing and determining the type of anemia by blood tests, examination, gastroscopy or colonoscopy, urine tests and others, the appropriate treatment is switched. It aims to increase the number of red blood cells of a person, which increases the amount of oxygen in the blood.

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So, according to the type of anemia a person has, treatment can include:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iron deficiency anemia: Iron supplements and dietary changes can help. The doctor should also identify and address the cause of any unusual bleeding, if any.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin deficiency anemia: Treatment may include dietary supplements and injections of vitamin B12.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thalassemia: Treatment includes folic acid supplements, chelated forms of iron and, for some people, blood transfusion and bone marrow transplantation.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anemia due to a chronic disease: treatment is directed first to the management of the underlying disease.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aplastic anemia: Treatment of aplastic anemia involves blood transfusion or bone marrow transplantation.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sickle cell anemia: Doctors treat this type of anemia with oxygen therapy, pain relief drugs and intravenous infusions. They can also prescribe antibiotics, folic acid supplements and other means.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hemolytic anemia: The treatment plan may include immunosuppressants, infection treatment and plasmapheresis, which filters the blood.</li></ul>

For example, if anemia is caused by dietary deficiencies, correcting the cause and using appropriate supplements for several weeks or months will resolve the condition. Relapses may occur, so changes in diet and longer intake of supplements may be necessary. In other cases, anemia can be permanent and lifelong treatment is necessary. Specialist hematologist will give the most complete and up-to-date information about this type of health problems.

Anemia: Symptoms, Types, Causes and Dagnostics

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Бетина Цветкова

What-is-Crohn's-disease

What is Crohn's disease

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Crohn's disease is a chronic or long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It is an autoimmune mediated inflammatory condition, that is, induced by autoimmune in the body. Therefore, the reasons should be sought in the activity of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, hormonal values, and in general - to analyze the endocrine, digestive, immune, nervous systems.

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Symptoms of Crohn's disease vary depending on which part of the intestine affects the condition. These often include pain syndrome, bowel ulcers, diarrhea, fatigue and exhaustion, weight loss and anemia, brain fog and others. With exacerbation of the condition, arthritis, skin disorders, inflammation of the liver and others may be triggered.

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After extensive diagnosis and confirmation of the disease follow guidelines for nutrition and medications. Alternative medicine funds may be added to them to support therapy.

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Recommended-herbs-and-supplements-for-Crohn's-disease

Recommended herbs and supplements for Crohn's disease

Boswellia

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One natural remedy that has been studied to relieve digestive disorders is Boswellia serrata&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/15122" target="_blank" data-ref="Boswellia serrata" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; Boswellia supplements are extracted from trees that produce sweet-looking resin rich in carbohydrates, essential oils and boswellic acid. Acid in resin is the active ingredient. It is believed to act as an anti-inflammatory agent.

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A recent study found that 14 out of 20 people with Crohn's disease who received Boswellia supplements achieved remission. However, this study is far from sufficient to offer definitive conclusions about the action of boswellia.&nbsp;

Turmeric

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Turmeric is a spice that is a relative of ginger. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14445" target="_blank" data-ref="Curcuma" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; Studies covering the past two decades have suggested that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has several healing properties that may be beneficial for people with Crohn's disease. We are talking about anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiamiloid properties and antiarticular properties.

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In addition, turmeric has antioxidant properties and is an antimicrobial agent. Therefore, it can help to fight infections in people with <a href="http://www.eurekaselect.com/article/54792" target="_blank" data-ref="Curcumin: A Boon to Colonic Diseases" rel="noopener">Crohn's disease</a>.&nbsp;[ref. 3]&nbsp;

Green-tea

Green tea

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Camellia Sinensis tea is a popular drink worldwide. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14489" target="_blank" data-ref="Camellia sinensis" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, green tea has become known as a means of supporting digestion and weight loss. However, more in-depth research is needed for its effects on the intestines and colon.

N-Acetylglucosamine

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N-acetylglucosamine is a supplement that is most often extracted from mussels. In some tests it is associated with success in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. N-acetylglucosamine can stop the activity of cells that cause inflammation.

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In one study it became clear that supplements with N-acetylglucosamine reduce colon inflammation in children with Crohn's disease without negative side effects. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/resolve/doi?DOI=10.1046/j.1365-2036.2000.00883.x" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

Vitamin-D

Vitamin D

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Recent studies have shown that vitamin D may be useful in the treatment of Crohn's disease. In them very often this vitamin is in short supply. By including sources of vitamin D, people with Crohn's disease can control symptoms and improve immune system health.&nbsp;

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This is the solar vitamin, so sun exposure is one source. Foods such as fish, seafood, eggs and others are dietary sources. Additionally, supplements with cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)- an active form of vitamin D can be taken.

Since Crohn's disease develops with a compromised immune system and activation of autoimmunity, it should be carefully evaluated what herbs and supplements to take. This must necessarily be done by medical discretion and in view of the state of play, possible other diseases and other factors.&nbsp;

Crohn's disease: Recommended Herbs and Dietary Supplements

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Deficiency-and-Role-of-Testosterone-in-Health

Deficiency and Role of Testosterone in Health 

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Testosterone is an important hormone for any person regardless of their gender. Although often associated with libido and muscles, testosterone occurs in everyone, including women, and also plays a key role in their health, along with other hormones. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/compound/100" target="_blank" data-ref="Testosterone" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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However, its deficiency in the body gives its reflection through various symptoms such as:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weak libido and fertility problems</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Erectile dysfunction in men&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Increased body fat</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of muscle mass</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reduced bone density</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of body hair</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Irritability or depression</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Memory and concentration disorders</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Low red blood cell count (anaemia)</li></ul>

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Vitamins,-herbs-and-supplements-for-low-testosterone

Vitamins, herbs and supplements for low testosterone 

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Traditional hormone replacement therapies, in the form of injections, gels and others, can provide the necessary levels of testosterone in the body. Herbs and supplements, on the other hand, can help the body independently produce testosterone. Some herbs and supplements simply aim to alleviate the symptoms of testosterone deficiency.&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/advances/article/12/3/744/5956480" target="_blank" data-ref="Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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While some alternative forms of treatment are safe for people with low levels of the hormone, many have not undergone rigorous tests in humans. Therefore, before trying any herb or supplement, always consult a doctor. This way you will find out which ones are right for you and recommend the best individual dosage.

Ashwagandha-(Withania-somnifera)

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 

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Traditional Indian medicine recommends ashvaganda for many things, including sexual dysfunction and infertility. The roots and fruits of the plant are used for the preparation of teas, extracts and capsules. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Role_of_Withania_somnifera_Ashwagandha_in_the_management_of_male_infertility_29277366" target="_blank" data-ref="Role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in the management of male infertility. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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A 2010 study estimated ashvaganda intake in 75 men suffering from infertility. Ashvaganda has been found to help improve testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility and levels of antioxidants in semen. [&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0015028209010140" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 4] In other</a>&nbsp;studies, however, the results are contradictory.

Vitamin D 

Vitamin D, also called cholecalciferol, can also help boost testosterone levels. A 2011 study found that men with vitamin D deficiency who had been taking 3,332 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily for 1 year had noticed a significant increase in <a href="https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0030-1269854" target="_blank" data-ref="Thieme E-Journals - Hormone and Metabolic Research / Abstract" rel="noopener">testosterone levels. [ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Zinc

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Zinc deficiency may be associated with low testosterone. This is because zinc is involved in testosterone production and maintains sperm quality. It is contained in foods such as poultry meat, legumes, nuts, some dairy products.

Garlic-(Allium-sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum) 

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Garlic (Allium sativum) can be used as a natural therapy in high blood pressure, supports immunity and gives good results in studies with mice for increased testosterone levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14382" target="_blank" data-ref="Allium sativum" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp; However, studies involving humans are needed to confirm the same effect.

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Dehydroepiandrosterone-(DHEA)

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) 

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In some cases of low testosterone levels, the body may not produce enough dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is a hormone that is converted into estrogen and testosterone. But the data on supplementation with DHEA and testosterone are mixed. Most studies report minor changes.&nbsp;

Chrysin-(Passiflora-incarnata)

Chrysin (Passiflora incarnata) 

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The crisis is a flavonoid extract found in honey and in Passiflora incarnata. You can take a crisis in the form of tea or supplements. A 2012 study in rats showed that a crisis can increase sperm motility, sperm concentration and testosterone levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01127.x" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 7] However,</a>&nbsp; it is not clear how well it is absorbed by the human body, so more research is needed.&nbsp;

There are many different natural remedies as well as dietary supplements that are believed to help normalize testosterone levels and correct deficiency. However, it is important to remember that in most cases studies of the safety and effectiveness of these therapies in humans are still very limited or need broader research. Therefore, always consult your doctor about possible treatment options, regardless of the condition.

Herbs, Vitamins and Supplements for Low Testosterone

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Healthy-foods-high-in-iron

Healthy foods high in iron

Mussels

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Mussels are delicious and nutritious. In general, all shellfish are high in iron, but oysters and mussels are particularly good sources.

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For example, a portion of mussels of 100 grams may contain up to 3 mg. 17% of the recommended daily dose. However, the iron content in mussels is highly variable and some species may contain much lower amounts.&nbsp;

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Also, iron in crustaceans is heme-iron, which your body digests more easily than non-heme iron, which is found in plants. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/6/3/1080" target="_blank" data-ref="Heme, an Essential Nutrient from Dietary Proteins, Critically Impacts Diverse Physiological and Pathological Processes" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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Spinach

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Spinach provides many health benefits at the cost of very few calories. About 100 grams of raw spinach contain 2.7 mg. 15% of the recommended daily dose. Although spinach is a source of non-heme iron that is not optimally digested, it is rich in vitamin C. This is important since vitamin C significantly increases iron absorption. [ <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3290310/" target="_blank" data-ref="Iron nutrition and absorption: dietary factors which impact iron bioavailability - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;

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Spinach is also rich in antioxidants called carotenoids, which can reduce your risk of cancer, reduce inflammation and protect your eyes from damage.

Liver-and-other-organs

Liver and other organs 

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Organ meats are extremely nutritious, despite their not so beautiful name. Usually these are the liver, kidneys, brain and heart - all of which are high in iron. For example, a portion of beef liver of 100 grams contains 6.5 mg. iron.

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Organ meats are also high in protein and are rich in B vitamins, honey and selenium. The liver is particularly rich in vitamin A, providing an impressive 1049% of DV per serving of 10 g. They also contain choline, an important nutrient for brain and liver health that many people do not receive in sufficient quantities. [&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/67/11/615/1850648" target="_blank" data-ref="Choline: an essential nutrient for public health" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;]

Legumes

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Legumes are rich in nutrients, including folate, magnesium and potassium. Some of the most common species of legumes are beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas and soybeans.

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They are a great source of iron, especially for vegetarians. One glass of about 200 g of boiled lentils contains 6.6 mg. which is 37% of the recommended daily dose.

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Black beans, dark red beans and white beans also fall into this category of beneficial foods. In fact, half a cup about 80-90 g of boiled black beans provides about 1.8 grams of iron, or 10% of the recommended daily dose. [&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/advances/article/11/5/1315/5824711" target="_blank" data-ref="Can Improved Legume Varieties Optimize Iron Status in Low- and Middle-Income Countries? A Systematic Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;

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Red-meat

Red meat 

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Red meat is probably the single most readily available source of heme-iron, potentially making it an important food for people who are prone to anemia.

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One serving of minced beef of 100 grams contains 2.7 mg. 15% of the recommended daily dose. The meat is also rich in protein, zinc, selenium and several B vitamins. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/8/2/89" target="_blank" data-ref="Is Higher Consumption of Animal Flesh Foods Associated with Better Iron Status among Adults in Developed Countries? A Systematic Review" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

Pumpkin-seeds

Pumpkin seeds 

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Pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option. One serving of pumpkin seeds of 25-30 grams contains 2.5 mg. 14% of the daily recommended dose.

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In addition, pumpkin seeds are a good source of vitamin K, zinc and manganese. They are also among the best sources of magnesium, which is deficient in many people. &nbsp;<a href="https://journals.physiology.org/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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Iron is an important mineral that should be provided to the body daily as your body cannot produce it on its own. Various foods of animal and plant origin are its sources. We will present to you six more foods rich in iron and other nutrients.

Twelve healthy foods high in iron [Part 1]

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Spirulina-is-extremely-rich-in-multiple-nutrients

Spirulina is extremely rich in multiple nutrients

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Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes, often called blue-green algae. Just like plants, cyanobacteria produces energy from sunlight through photosynthesis. &nbsp;<a href="https://bg.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%A4%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%B7%D0%B0" target="_blank" data-ref="Фотосинтеза &ndash; Уикипедия" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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Spirulina has been consumed since the ancient Aztecs, but became popular again when NASA suggested it could be grown in space for use by astronauts. <a href="https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19890016190" target="_blank" data-ref="Characterization of Spirulina biomass for CELSS diet potential - NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;The standard daily dose of spirulina is 1-3 grams, but doses up to 10 grams per day are effectively used. This small algae is full of nutrients - one tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains the following nutrients:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Protein: 4 grams (the quality of the protein in spirulina is considered excellent - comparable to eggs. It provides all the essential amino acids you need)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 11% of RDA (RDA means dietary reference intake)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 15% of RDA</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vitamin B3 (niacin): 4% of RDA</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Honey: 21% of RDA</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iron: 11% of RDA</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It also contains decent amounts of magnesium, potassium and manganese and small amounts of almost all other nutrients you need.</li></ul>In only 7 g spirulina contains 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbohydrates. All this leads some researchers to believe that spirulina may be the most nutritious food on the planet.

Spirulina-has-powerful-antioxidant-and-anti-inflammatory-properties

Spirulina has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

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Oxidative damage can impair your DNA and cells, as well as can cause chronic inflammation that contributes to cancer and other diseases. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0891584910005381" target="_blank" data-ref="ScienceDirectScience DirectScienceDirect helpElsevierRELX Group" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants that can protect against oxidative damage. Its main active component is called phycocyanin. This antioxidant substance gives spirulina its unique blue-green color. Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and inhibit the production of inflammatory signaling molecules, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

May-lower-levels-of-'bad'-LDL-cholesterol-and-triglycerides

May lower levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol and triglycerides

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Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world. Many risk factors are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. As it turns out, spirulina positively affects many of these factors. For example, it can lower total cholesterol, "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising levels of "good" HDL cholesterol.

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In a study of 25 people with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina per day significantly improved these markers, and in another study in people with high cholesterol, it was found that 1 gram of spirulina per day lowered triglycerides by 16.3% and "bad" LDL by 10.1%. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23754631/" target="_blank" data-ref="The hypolipidaemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population: a prospective study - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp; And so we get to the next point related to cholesterol levels.

May-lower-levels-of-'bad'-LDL-cholesterol-and-triglycerides_2_2

Protects-'bad'-LDL-cholesterol-from-oxidation

Protects 'bad' LDL cholesterol from oxidation

Protects-'bad'-LDL-cholesterol-from-oxidation_3_0

The fat structures in your body are susceptible to oxidative damage. This phenomenon is known as lipid peroxidation, a key driver of many serious diseases, including atherosclerosis, IBD, asthma, Parkinson's disease, kidney damage, preeclampsia. For example, one of the key steps in the development of heart disease is the oxidation of "bad" LDL cholesterol, and in several studies it has been found that antioxidants in spirulina are especially effective for reducing lipid peroxidation in both humans and animals. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4320919/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effect of Spirulina Intervention on Oxidative Stress, Antioxidant Status, and Lipid Profile in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

Spirulina-may-have-anticancer-properties

Spirulina may have anticancer properties

Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria or blue-green algae that is famous for its impressive health benefits and a rich nutritional profile. Spirulina has been found to improve blood lipid levels, suppress oxidation, reduce blood pressure and lower blood sugar. There are other beneficial effects of spirulina's intake, but more research is needed before they are validated.