Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid – both are needed for the normal formation of red blood cells. An inadequate dietary intake of either of these two B vitamins results in faulty cell division and large, misshapen red blood cells that are unable to transport oxygen.


  1. A deficiency of folic acid may contribute to megaloblastic anemia
  2. A deficiency of vitamin B12 may contribute to megaloblastic anemia
  3. Copper, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B6 – are needed for the formation of hemoglobin and red blood cells, and a long-term deficiency of one or more of these nutrients results in anemia. Vitamin C is necessary for optimal absorption of iron.
  4. A deficiency of copper may contribute to early hypochromic anemia or microcytic anemia
  5. A deficiency of vitamin C may contribute to anemia as a symptom of scurvy. An abundant supply of vitamin C is needed to hold iron in the body
  6. A deficiency of vitamin B6 may contribute to microcytic anemia
  7. A deficiency of vitamin E may contribute to hemolytic anemia

Vitamin E – is necessary for the protection of red blood cells once they are formed. This antioxidant protects red blood cell membranes and inadequate dietary intake of this fat-soluble vitamin results in hemolytic anemia.