The correct answer is B. Iron.
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. When there are not enough red blood cells, the tissues do not get enough oxygen and can’t work properly.
There are many different types of anemia, but the most common type is iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the blood. Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. When there is not enough iron, the body cannot make enough hemoglobin, and the red blood cells become smaller and thinner. This can cause a number of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, and lightheadedness.
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by a number of things, including:
- Not getting enough iron in the diet. Iron is found in meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds.
- Losing too much blood. This can happen from heavy menstrual bleeding, surgery, or an injury.
- Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease. These conditions can make it difficult for the body to absorb iron.
If you have anemia, your doctor will likely recommend that you take iron supplements. You may also need to make changes to your diet to get more iron. In some cases, you may need to have a blood transfusion.
Cobalt, sodium, and calcium are not essential for the production of red blood cells. Therefore, they do not cause anemia.