Always Tired? It Might Be Anemia — Here’s What You Need to Know

Anemia can only be confirmed through proper blood testing — and identifying whether it’s iron, B12, or another deficiency is the first step toward restoring energy, strength, and overall health.

Anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide — yet many people don’t recognize the signs until fatigue, weakness, or brain fog significantly affect daily life. While iron deficiency is the most well-known cause, anemia can develop for several different reasons.

At WellnessRX Pharmacy, our pharmacist and nutritionist team regularly help patients identify the type of anemia they may be experiencing and create personalized plans to restore healthy levels safely.

What Is Anemia?

Anemia occurs when you do not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen throughout the body. Without adequate oxygen delivery, tissues and organs cannot function optimally — leading to fatigue and other symptoms.

There are several types of anemia, including:

• Iron-deficiency anemia (most common)

• Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia

• Folate deficiency anemia

• Anemia of chronic disease

• Hemolytic anemia

• Aplastic anemia

Understanding the cause is critical before starting treatment.

Common Myths About Anemia

❌ Myth 1: “Anemia only affects women.”

While menstruating women are at higher risk, anemia also affects men, children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions.

❌ Myth 2: “If you’re tired, you’re anemic.”

Fatigue has many causes. Blood testing is necessary to confirm anemia and determine its type.

❌ Myth 3: “Taking iron is always the solution.”

Iron supplements only help if iron deficiency is present. Taking iron unnecessarily can cause digestive issues and other complications.

❌ Myth 4: “Anemia is harmless.”

Untreated anemia can affect heart health, immune function, cognitive performance, and quality of life.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Anemia

Symptoms can develop gradually and may include:

• Persistent fatigue

• Weakness

• Pale skin

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Cold hands and feet

• Brittle nails

• Hair thinning

• Headaches

• Brain fog

• Rapid heartbeat

• Restless legs

In children, anemia may affect learning and development.

How Nutrition Affects Anemia

Nutrition plays a central role in preventing and correcting many types of anemia.

Iron-Rich Foods

• Red meat

• Poultry

• Liver

• Lentils and beans

• Spinach

• Pumpkin seeds

• Fortified cereals

Tip: Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C (citrus, bell peppers) to improve absorption.

Vitamin B12 Sources

• Meat

• Fish

• Eggs

• Dairy

• Fortified plant-based alternatives

Vegetarians and vegans are at higher risk of B12 deficiency.

Folate Sources

• Leafy greens

• Beans

• Avocado

• Asparagus

Physical Activity & Anemia

Exercise improves circulation and energy — but untreated anemia can cause:

• Shortness of breath during mild activity

• Reduced stamina

• Increased heart strain

Low-impact movement is recommended during recovery. Once iron or nutrient levels normalize, strength and endurance typically improve.

Supplements That May Help

Supplement choice depends on the type of anemia:

For Iron-Deficiency Anemia:

• Iron bisglycinate (gentler on digestion)

• Polysaccharide iron complex

• Iron with vitamin C for better absorption

For B12 Deficiency:

• Methylcobalamin (active B12)

• Sublingual B12

• B-complex (if multiple deficiencies exist)

For Folate Deficiency:

• L-5-MTHF (active folate)

Additional Support:

• Vitamin D (overall immune and energy support)

• Magnesium (if fatigue and muscle symptoms coexist)

⚠️ Supplementation should be guided by lab testing.

Medications That Can Contribute to Anemia

Certain medications may interfere with nutrient absorption or increase risk:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

• Metformin (can lower B12)

• NSAIDs (may cause gastrointestinal bleeding)

• Certain antibiotics

• Chemotherapy drugs

Your pharmacist can review whether medications may be contributing.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

• Menstruating women

• Pregnant women

• Vegetarians and vegans

• People with digestive disorders (celiac, Crohn’s)

• Older adults

• Individuals with chronic disease

• Those with heavy menstrual bleeding

When Should You See a Healthcare Professional?

Seek evaluation if you experience:

• Severe fatigue

• Chest pain

• Rapid heart rate

• Persistent dizziness

• Symptoms that worsen

A simple blood test (CBC, ferritin, B12, folate) can provide answers.

How WellnessRX Pharmacy Can Help

Our pharmacist and nutritionist team can:

✔️ Review blood work results

✔️ Identify the type of anemia

✔️ Recommend appropriate supplements and dosing

✔️ Assess medication-related risks

✔️ Support nutrition plans

✔️ Monitor improvement and side effects

Anemia is highly treatable — but only when the cause is correctly identified.

Key Takeaway

Anemia is more than just feeling tired. It affects oxygen delivery, energy, mood, and overall health. Whether caused by iron deficiency, B12 deficiency, medication use, or chronic disease, personalized care makes a meaningful difference.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have questions about your labs, we’re here to help.