Animal sources for iron include red meat, seafood, and organ meats. Plant sources rich in iron include beans, broccoli, nuts, spinach, whole grain bread, and fortified cereals. You need a lot more iron if you’re pregnant. Pregnant women should get around 30 mg each day.

Many of the same foods that contain vitamin B12 also contain folic acid, so you can take care of both nutrients in single meals or servings.

Don’t start taking dietary supplements without talking to your doctor first.

This recommended amount is just a guideline. You might need more if you exercise or live in a hot climate.

Keeping your vitamin C and B12 intake up with also help you fight infections.

Follow the same rule if you take calcium supplements, because they have a similar effect.

The doctor can confirm whether or not you’re anemic with a simple blood test.

In some cases, your doctor might order a blood transfusion to give you a boost of hemoglobin. For sickle cell anemia, you’ll probably be given prescription medications to treat the condition.