I went to the doctor last week to find out that I had mild anemia. That would seriously explain a lot of the symptoms I have been having for the past three years. What symptoms are those you may ask? I’ll take it straight from MayoClinic:

“Signs and symptoms vary depending on the cause of your anemia, but may include:

• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• A fast or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Cognitive problems
• Cold hands and feet
• Headache

Initially, anemia can be so mild it goes unnoticed. But signs and symptoms increase as anemia worsens.”

I pretty much had every symptom except for the cognitive problems. Though I really wouldn’t know, I am a tad on the nutty side. I have also seen symptoms such as brittle hair and nails, which was starting to happen and I was freaking out. But this past week I have been feeling much better now that I am paying for attention to my iron intake.

This is explains why I have been eating meat a bit more often, specifically turkey. I really do love eating a full vegetarian diet but I know that health comes first, especially since I have too many issues to keep track of. My doctor did give me prescribed iron pills (Over-the-counter = 45mg, Mines = 325mg), but they are very specific as to when you have to take them. Once i get into my work [and life] routine, I will take them on a more daily basis.I am also eating bars that have more iron like the Luna and Clif bars. Even though the Luna bars have vegetable glycerin (meaning possible corn present), it doesn’t bother me if I have the bar once or twice a week. I’m also eating more potatoes, spinach, broccoli and chickpeas, which have a good amount of iron. If you are curious, you can check out this Top Iron-Rich Foods list from WebMD here.
That’s that! Just thought I’d update you on my life. First it’s the food allergies and now the anemia. At least I am glad they are things I can manage. Must be thankful for that one.

Question: Do you suffer from any issues that were hard to deal with at first, but now you’ve got the hang of it? Do you feel better?

I totally feel better from figuring out my food allergies and now that I am increasing the iron and vitamin c intake, I am slowly starting to feel better. I know I’ll feel much better when I take the pills.