Anemia is a disorder that can occur when there are issues in the body when it is unable to produce hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red protein present in the blood that works to transfer oxygen to the body.

Iron deficiency is one of the major causes and the most common forms of anemia in the body. Anemia can occur to people mostly because of blood loss but it can also be caused due to the lack of iron in the body due to deficiency in the diet.

While it is greatly understood by a lot of people, there is still a lot of information that is spread about Anemia that is not true. A CBC test helps a lot in finding out anemia. The CBC blood test price is very affordable in Pakistan.

So, let’s find out all the myths and misconceptions about Anemia that are believed to be true.

Myth 1: If you are vegetarian you will suffer from Anemia

Red meat is said to be a great form of iron and foods like leafy greens are full of iron. Now, when you go for a vegetarian diet, it is likely that your body will get lesser iron than needed. Now, this can increase the chances of you suffering from Anemia.

But keep in mind that this is not always the case.  Another vitamin that is necessary for the production of iron is B12 and it is present in meat and poultry products. Switching to a vegetarian diet can only increase the chances of anemia but doesn't necessarily cause it.

So, don’t believe all that you hear, make sure that you discuss it with your doctor before going on a vegetarian diet.

Myth 2: Anemia occurs due to poor diet

Malnutrition is a major cause of anemia in children but when it comes to sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, it is not the case. So, thinking that all anemias are caused by poor diet is not true.

When it comes to adults, anemia is caused by other issues like inflammation, infections, cancers, and bleeding gastritis. Some of the issues with the colon can also cause anemia due to the blood loss that occurs.

Myth 3: Iron deficiency always means you are Anemic

Anemia can be caused by iron deficiency and iron deficiency is one of the common causes of anemia. Now, this doesn't mean that anemia and iron deficiency are linked.

There are a lot of other reasons that can cause Anemia. These include ACD and sickle cell anemia. These anemias are not caused by a deficiency in nutrition.

So, it is just a myth that anemia is caused by just iron deficiency. There are a number of more reasons why anemia can attack your body.

Myth 4: Anemia is genetic

Now, this depends on the type of anemia that you have. In the case of a rare inherited blood disorder called Fanconi anemia. This is when your anemia prevents the bone marrow from producing new blood cells in the body for normal functioning.

Other forms of anemia like thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are hereditary forms of anemia. Although these are linked with genetics, a lot of anemia cases are caused by other illnesses and iron deficiency.

So, to believe that anemia is caused by only genetic issues is not true. There are a lot of issues that can cause anemia and it’s not a good idea to blame genes all the time.

Myth 5: You cannot exercise with Anemia

Although anemia does cause weakness and you feel less energetic than your normal self but is not a great idea to stop participating in physical activities. It can obviously get tiring. But the best idea is to consult the best hematologist in Islamabad to make sure the anemia you have allows to you work out safely.

It can obviously get difficult as there is no way oxygen can reach the blood cells. But you can still work out and do all the exercises you want to keep yourself active and going. The best advice here is to start slow and keep a check on what your body likes and endures. Also. make sure you consult your 

doctor before getting into exercise.

It is important to do research and find your own information which can help you in finding the truth.

Conclusion

Anemia is a very common condition that can occur to anyone. There are a number of factors that contribute to causing anemia. With that, there are a number of misconceptions that are spread around that misguide people. Make sure that you do your own research and find out what is true and what is not. Discuss your diet and supplements take with your doctor so that you can treat your anemia timely before it gets too bad.