Diet has a vital role to play in preventing anemia. Maintain a diet which is high in iron and vitamin C. This is also helpful for treating the illness if diagnosed with anemia. Vitamin B12 and folic acid, when taken appropriately, serve significantly in preventing anemia. Vitamin C alleviates iron absorption in the body. Vitamin B12 and folate, B complex vitamins, are essential for regular red blood formation. The storage mechanism of B12 and folate is extensive, making the deficiency to appear late in adults. Adults can store B12 to last for about 3 to 6 years, and folate for about 3 months. As infants and children are yet to establish the reserves, they reveal the deficiency more rapidly. 

Animal protein, spinach, beans, egg yolk and fortified cereals are the major sources of iron, which should be included in the diet. Dark green leafy vegetables and dried fruits are also rich in iron. Citrus fruits and berries are rich in vitamin C.  

Inappropriate intake of iron is one of the chief causes of anemia. Lack of iron can result in iron deficiency anemia, a common type of anemia. In this condition, there is lack of sufficient healthy red blood cells within the blood. Consequently, the body fails to produce enough hemoglobin, which is crucial for supplying oxygen throughout the body. This shows in tiredness and shortness of breath.

Taking iron supplements can be helpful. If a child is born prematurely or had a low birth weight, or if he/she has been breast fed after 6 months of age, it is important to consult with the doctor about taking iron supplements. Every day, a baby should consume two or more servings of food high in iron (like fortified cereal). The mother’s milk contains easily digestible iron as against the formula ones. For children below 1 year of age, iron-fortified formula should be given if breast feeding seems impossible. Cow’s milk is not a good iron source for infants. Strawberries, apricots, kiwi, melons and tomatoes are good sources of vitamin C, facilitating iron absorption in children. 

Pregnant women require about 30 mg of iron every day. Generally, the pre-pregnancy iron requirement doubles when a woman becomes pregnant. When the term is reaching its end, the child will be reserving iron for his/her first six months after birth. During the first six months, infants usually do not get much iron from their mother’s diet and depend largely upon their own reserves. 

By maintaining sufficient red blood cell count in the body, anemia can be prevented. Proper diet, enough sleep and exercises can maintain health and aid the production of red blood cells. Regular consultation with your doctor will ensure a healthy pregnancy, free of anemia. 

If there is a family history of anemia, genetic counseling should be considered. A counselor brings out the potential risks parents can transfer to their children. Genetic counseling has found particular significance in sickle cell anemia, through early diagnosis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year about 3 percent children are born with some defect(s). 

One of the best ways to prevent anemia is by keeping away from substances which cause anemia. Too much intake of alcohol and tobacco disrupts the absorption of iron. Caffeine is also to be watched out for.

If you find yourself bleeding excessively, it is recommended to examine the wound immediately. Avoid consuming iron pills without consulting the doctor. If the anemia does not arise out of iron deficiency, the pills may result in poisoning (iron toxicity) or iron overload (hemochromatosis) in the body. Be pro-active and get regular hemoglobin tests to monitor the red blood cell count. 

This potentially fatal disease, wherein the bone marrow fails to make sufficient blood cells, responds to some prevention measures. By avoiding exposure to toxins, radiation and medications which cause aplastic anemia, the disease can be prevented. Hepatitis B can also cause aplastic anemia, which can be prevented through vaccine and safe sex habits. Avoiding intravenous drugs is also helpful.

Although little can be done to prevent Fanconi’s anemia, avoiding carcinogens is helpful. It is a genetic disorder wherein there is reduced production of all types of blood cells. Genetic counseling can be found helpful as well. Regular check ups are required for early diagnosis. Administration of certain vaccinations can avoid the situation from becoming complicated.