Anemia Iron Deficiency: Difference between revisions

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== What Does It Mean? ==
== What Does It Mean? ==
Anemia due to B12 or folate deficiency occurs when there is an insufficient supply of these vitamins, leading to impaired red blood cell production and neurological dysfunction. Both nutrients are essential for DNA synthesis, methylation, and proper nervous system function.
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport in the blood. This condition can cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function.


=== Key Physiological Imbalances: ===
=== Key Physiological Imbalances: ===


* Impaired Red Blood Cell Formation: Leads to macrocytic anemia with larger-than-normal RBCs.
* Inadequate Red Blood Cell Production: Insufficient iron results in reduced hemoglobin synthesis.
* Elevated Homocysteine Levels: Increased cardiovascular and neurological risks.
* Impaired Oxygen Delivery: Low hemoglobin reduces oxygen transport to tissues.
* Neurological Impairment: Myelin sheath damage leading to neuropathy and cognitive issues.
* Increased Fatigue & Weakness: Cells receive less oxygen, impairing energy production.
* DNA Methylation Disruptions: Affects detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and gene expression.
* Altered Immune Function: Iron plays a role in immune response and metabolic processes.


== How Did We Get There? ==
== How Did We Get There? ==
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=== Root Causes: ===
=== Root Causes: ===


* Inadequate dietary intake (vegan/vegetarian diets)
* Inadequate dietary intake of iron-rich foods
* Malabsorption disorders (pernicious anemia, celiac disease, SIBO)
* Chronic blood loss (e.g., menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding)
* Chronic alcohol consumption impairing vitamin absorption
* Malabsorption conditions (e.g., celiac disease, H. pylori infection)
* Genetic polymorphisms affecting B12 and folate metabolism (MTHFR mutations)
* Increased iron demand (pregnancy, growth spurts, endurance training)
* Increased demand during pregnancy or chronic illness
* Chronic inflammation affecting iron utilization


=== Signs & Symptoms: ===
=== Signs & Symptoms: ===


* Fatigue and weakness
* Fatigue and low energy levels
* Pale skin and shortness of breath
* Pale skin and brittle nails
* Neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling, memory loss, depression)
* Shortness of breath and dizziness
* Glossitis (inflamed tongue) and mouth sores
* Cold hands and feet due to poor circulation
* Poor wound healing and brittle nails
* Frequent headaches and difficulty concentrating
* Increased homocysteine levels contributing to cardiovascular risk
* Increased heart rate (compensatory response to low oxygen levels)


== How Do We Diagnose It? ==
== How Do We Diagnose It? ==
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|'''Optimal Range'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|-
|Hematocrit
|Ceruloplasmin
|Decreased
|Decreased
|40.00-48.00 %
|18.00-21.00 mg/dL
|-
|Ferritin
|Decreased
|45.00-79.00 ng/mL
|-
|Globulin
|Decreased
|2.40-2.80 g/dL
|-
|-
|Hemoglobin
|Hemoglobin
|Decreased
|Decreased
|13.50-14.50 g/dL
|13.50-14.50 g/dL
|-
|Homocysteine
|Increased
|5.00-7.20 µmol/L
|-
|-
|Iron, Total
|Iron, Total
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|85.00-130.00 µg/dL
|85.00-130.00 µg/dL
|-
|-
|Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
|MCH
|Increased
|Decreased
|140.00-200.00 U/L
|28.00-31.90 pg
|-
|-
|MCH
|MCHC
|Increased
|Decreased
|28.00-31.90 pg
|32.00-35.00 g/dL
|-
|-
|MCV
|MCV
|Increased
|82.00-89.90 fL
|-
|Neutrophil %
|Decreased
|Decreased
|48.00-60.00 %
|82.00-89.00  fL
|-
|-
|Reticulocyte %
|Phosphorus (Phosphate)
|Normal or Decreased
|Normal or Decreased
|0.70-2.80 %
|3.00-4.00 mg/dL
|-
|-
|RBC
|RBC
|Decreased
|Decreased
|4.20-4.90 Cells/µL
|4.20-4.90 Cells/µL  
|-
|Uric Acid
|Increased
|3.50-5.40 mg.dL
|-
|WBC
|Normal or Decreased
|5.5-7.5 Cells/µL
|}
|}


== How Do We Treat It? ==
== How Do We Treat It? ==
Treatment focuses on replenishing B12 and folate stores, improving absorption, and addressing underlying causes.
Treatment focuses on restoring iron levels, improving absorption, and addressing underlying causes.


=== Supplement Protocol ===
=== Supplement Protocol ===
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|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|-
|Vita B Methyl
|Iron
|Provides bioavailable B12 and methylated folate
|Provides safe, highly absorbed iron to restore RBC levels
|1 capsule without food, daily
|1 capsule without food, daily
|}
|}
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=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===
=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===


* Increase B12-Rich Foods: Include grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, and eggs.
* Increase Iron-Rich Foods: Consume grass-fed meats, organ meats, lentils, spinach, and pumpkin seeds.
* Boost Folate Intake: Consume leafy greens, lentils, and avocado.
* Enhance Iron Absorption: Pair iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods (citrus, bell peppers).
* Improve Gut Health: Address malabsorption issues with probiotics and digestive enzymes.
* Avoid Iron Blockers: Reduce intake of tea, coffee, calcium, and high-phytate foods around meals.
* Limit Alcohol Intake: Reduces interference with B12 absorption.
* Address Gut Health: Support digestive function for optimal nutrient absorption.
* Assess Genetic Factors: Consider testing for MTHFR polymorphisms to tailor supplementation.