Why Are So Many People Anemic?

Anemia occurs when your blood doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen effectively. While iron deficiency is the most common cause, anemia can also be linked to:

● Vitamin deficiencies (B12, folate)

● Chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions

● Hormonal imbalances

● Digestive health issues (such as poor absorption in the gut)

● Blood loss (heavy periods, GI conditions, or undetected bleeding)

Globally, anemia affects nearly 1 in 3 people. The World Health Organization identifies it as a major public health concern because it impacts energy, brain function, immunity, and overall quality of life. 

Anemia in the United States

In the United States, anemia is far more common than most people realize. Approximately 5.6% of the population is anemic—with higher rates among:

● Women of reproductive age (especially in states with higher maternal health challenges such as Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana)

● Older adults (particularly in retirement-heavy states like Florida, Arizona, and Pennsylvania)

● Individuals with chronic illness (often seen in both urban centers like New York and rural states where access to care is limited, such as Montana or Wyoming)

This means millions of Americans—from the Pacific Northwest to the Deep South—are living with a condition that drains vitality, yet can often be corrected with the right approach.

Why Root Cause Solutions Matter

Traditional medicine often treats anemia by prescribing iron supplements or medications without asking why the body is struggling. At Aurora Functional Healthcare, we look deeper. Through comprehensive lab testing and personalized care, we aim to uncover the underlying imbalances causing your anemia—whether it’s nutritional, hormonal, or related to gut health.

By resolving the root cause, we don’t just mask symptoms—we restore your energy, vitality, and long-term health. 

Telehealth: Accessible in All 50 States

Whether you’re in California or Texas, the Midwest heartland, the East Coast, or a small rural town in Alaska, our telehealth platform makes it possible to access root-cause care without leaving home.

No matter where you live:

● Urban areas (like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago) → Get support without the hassle of city traffic.

● Rural communities (in states like Nebraska, West Virginia, or North Dakota) → Gain access to specialized care that might not exist locally.

● Suburban families (in states like Georgia, Colorado, or Michigan) → Conveniently schedule visits around work and school schedules.

With today’s telehealth solutions, you can connect with our functional health providers from anywhere in the United States. No waiting rooms, no unnecessary travel—just personalized, root-cause focused care delivered directly to you.

Ready to Get to the Root of Your Anemia?

If you’ve been struggling with fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained weakness, don’t ignore the warning signs. Take the first step toward lasting health today.

👉 Book your appointment now

At Aurora Functional Healthcare, we’ll partner with you—no matter your state—to uncover what’s really driving your anemia and create a plan tailored to your unique needs. 

Foods That Help Improve Anemia

Iron-Rich Foods

Animal sources (heme iron – best absorbed):

● Grass-fed beef

● Organic chicken or turkey (especially dark meat)

● Sardines, salmon, tuna

● Liver (beef or chicken)

Plant sources (non-heme iron – better absorbed with Vitamin C):

● Lentils

● Chickpeas

● Black beans, kidney beans

● Spinach, kale, Swiss chard

● Quinoa

● Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds

Vitamin C–Rich Foods

● Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons)

● Strawberries

● Kiwi

● Bell peppers

● Broccoli

● Tomatoes

Vitamin B12–Rich Foods

● Wild-caught salmon

● Sardines

● Pasture-raised eggs

● Grass-fed dairy (yogurt, cheese)

● Fortified plant milks (almond, oat, soy – check labels)

Folate-Rich Foods

● Dark leafy greens (spinach, romaine, collard greens)

● Avocados

● Asparagus

● Brussels sprouts

● Lentils

● Beets

Copper & Zinc–Rich Foods

● Cashews

● Almonds

● Pumpkin seeds

● Chickpeas

● Oysters

Pro tip: Pair plant-based iron foods with Vitamin C foods (like spinach + lemon juice or beans + bell peppers) to boost absorption. Avoid drinking coffee or black tea with iron-rich meals, since tannins can block absorption.