Anemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues. Several nutrient deficiencies can cause or contribute to this condition.
Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Iron deficiency impairs hemoglobin production and is a leading cause of anemia.
Vitamin B12 and folate are also necessary for red blood cell maturation. Deficiencies in either vitamin can prevent proper cell development and lead to anemia.
While iron is a mineral, vitamin B12 and folate are vitamins. Together, these nutrients are critical for healthy blood production, and a shortfall in any of them may result in anemia. Proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is important to determine the specific cause and appropriate treatment.