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Anemia Dietary cures
Food sources (cures) for anemia.
(28 Mar 2008)
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Diet for anemia is usually one that contains foods which is rich in iron, in addition to iron supplements prescribed by the doctor. A number of factors influence the absorption of iron from food in an individual's body. The most important factor is the form of iron that is absorbed by the body.
Heme Iron is widely available in animal sources while non-Heme Iron is found in vegetable sources. Iron from vegetable sources is far less available than the iron found in animal sources.
Patients suffering from anemia must consume the following foods that are believed to be excellent sources of Heme Iron:
Foods containing non heme iron include
- fortified breakfast cereals
In order to improve the absorption of non heme iron in the body, it helps to include a portion of food that contains heme iron along with vegetable sources of iron. You would want to check with your doctor to find out what is causing the anemia. Treating the cause of anemia can greatly help in controlling the condition; for example if the cause of anemia is due to loss of blood, then loss of blood will need to be treated. On the other hand if anemia is the result of a diet that is low in iron, your doctor is likely to recommend iron enriched foods in your diet along with iron supplementation.
Research reveals that the body absorbs the iron that is present in meats rather than the iron present in vegetables. Consuming a small portion of meat-based products along with certain vegetables can help in getting more iron from these foods. Some doctors also recommend taking additional vitamins such as vitamin C in order to better absorb the iron present in foods. Foods that are rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits and juices.
Some individuals develop adverse reactions towards iron supplements and hence it is important to inform your doctor if you notice any discomfort ranging from stomach upsets, heartburn or constipation. You can try consuming the pills along with your meals and increasing the quantity of fiber in your diet if you suffer from constipation. Do not take iron supplements prior to bed time as it can result in an upset stomach. Your doctor may be able to recommend a different formula of brand if a particular kind of iron supplement is causing new problems.
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answered by G M on 10 Mar 2010, 7:55:55
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For treating anemia, home remedies are considered to be the safest and most effective. Since lack of iron is one of the main causes of anemia, it is very important to have a healthy meal that is rich in all the vital nutrients. Apples are considered one of the best ways to obtain iron. You can have them after every meal. Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons can be eaten in plenty. Ripe banana mixed with honey should be eaten twice a day as it provides a lot of energy. In fact, honey taken in any form is useful as it is rich in copper, iron and manganese. You should also eat a lot of green leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, celery and broccoli. These consist of iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. Beetroot juice should be a part of your regular diet. Having equal amount of beetroot and apple juice, with sugar and honey, also cures anemia faster. Red or white meat should be eaten on a daily basis as these contain maximum amounts of vitamin B12. Fish, raisins, eggs, apricots, carrots, onions, tomatoes among many others contain high levels of iron and should also be consumed on a regular basis. Consumption of dates is a very good remedy too. They can be eaten moist or dry, as jam, a wine drink, just fresh, or can also be used in cooking. Put one date in a glass of hot water for a few hours and drink the water after it is cool. Another way is to soak around 7 almonds, in water, overnight. Throw away the water in the morning, peel off the almond skin and have these every morning, for at least three months. Home remedies in anemia may take a long time to work, but they are highly effective in the long run as they eliminate the root cause.
Besides taking care of your diet, exercising is very important in curing anemia. Walking, running, cycling, weight training or any form of physical activity helps regulate the blood flow in the body and make you more active. Having a bath with cold water is also very beneficial. Breathing deeply for about 10 minutes could do wonders for your system. You should avoid drinking excess tea, coffee, aerated drinks and beer. These significantly lower your iron consumption. Sun bathing is also highly recommended as it increases the production of red blood cells.
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answered by G M on 18 May 2009, 4:47:33
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Anemia Dietary cures Anemia may be a result of iron deficiency or of a Vitamin B12 or Folate deficiency. Woman need 15 mg of iron a day and men need at least 10 mg. The right nutritional choices can make sure you get this quantity on a daily basis.
Here are some ways to improve your iron intake:
- Red meat is a rich source of iron. Poultry also is a good source, but leg meat contains more iron than other chicken breast. Fish also contains some iron.
- Make up a vegetable juice from spinach, kale, beet greens and parsley. This is rich in both Vitamin C and Iron. Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron
- Dairy intake may be reduced as dairy interferes with the absorption of iron
- Try and avoid tea, coffee and cola drinks. All of these inhibit the absorption of iron.
- Vegetarian sources of iron include peas and beans, black strap molasses, leafy vegetables, egg yolks, seeds and nuts especially sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.
To take care of a Vitamin B12 and Folate deficiency the following may be consumed:
- Salmon and mackerel are good sources of Vitamin B12
- Black eyed peas, beans and lentils are good sources of Folate.
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answered by S E on 28 Mar 2008, 8:16:31
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