What does iron deficiency anemia mean?

Due to insufficient ferritin in the body, red blood cells cannot synthesize hemoglobin normally, leading to anemia. Causes of iron-deficiency anemia include inadequate dietary iron intake, impaired iron absorption, and chronic blood loss. So, what exactly is iron-deficiency anemia?

What Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia?

Iron-deficiency anemia is a type of anemia caused by insufficient ferritin stores in the body, resulting in impaired hemoglobin synthesis within red blood cells. Common causes include inadequate dietary iron intake, impaired intestinal iron absorption, and chronic blood loss. Characteristically, iron-deficiency anemia presents as microcytic, hypochromic anemia, accompanied by reduced serum iron and ferritin concentrations. First-line treatment involves oral iron supplementation, such as ferrous sulfate granules, ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate tablets, and ferrous lactate. For patients unable to tolerate or absorb oral iron, intravenous iron therapy is an effective alternative. Additionally, individuals with iron-deficiency anemia should avoid tea and coffee, as these beverages inhibit iron absorption.

If diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia, prioritize consuming iron-rich foods—especially animal-based sources such as liver, whole blood, and lean meats. Compared with plant-based iron sources, heme iron from animal foods is significantly better absorbed by the human body.

Secondly, certain fruits and vegetables—particularly dark leafy greens such as celery, spinach, green onions, lettuce, shiitake mushrooms, and wood ear mushrooms—are rich in non-heme iron. Other iron-containing fruits include jujubes (Chinese dates), apples, and apricots. We hope this information is helpful to you!