When the body is lacking certain nutrients it becomes anemic. Sufficient amounts of iron, folate or B12 and vitamin C need to be ingested to ward off the signs of anemia. Certain blood diseases can cause anemia as well, but in the case of anemias caused by lack of vitamins or minerals, expert medical treatment along with adjustments in the diet can correct the condition.
The Most Common Form of Anemia
Many people, women in particular, suffer from anemia caused by iron deficiency. For the most part this deficiency is caused by blood loss, but it can also be caused by the body’s inability to properly absorb iron. Expert medical treatment along with guidance for a diet rich in iron will help eliminate this type of anemia.
In Addition to Expert Medical Treatment, These Foods Help Treat Anemia
Expert medical treatment addresses the cause and cure for anemia. If the anemia is caused by an iron deficiency, it can be treated with dietary improvements. Heme foods like fish, poultry and red meat contain iron and are easily absorbed by the body. Nonheme foods are not as readily absorbed unless vitamin C is present. These foods include beans, lentils, tofu, enriched breads, spinach, broccoli, nuts and dried fruits to name a few.
Meat, Fish and Poultry
Many people are cutting back on their red meat consumption; however lean cuts of red meat are good in moderation. One of the best heme foods for correcting anemia is liver. Both beef liver and chicken livers are good sources of iron and easily absorbed by the body. Liver is definitely an acquired taste, so look for a recipe that you find appealing. Seafood is another good heme food.
The nonheme foods include a variety of vegetables. Spinach is one of the most well-known foods for fighting anemia in conjunction with expert medical treatment. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, turnip greens, and collard greens are all good sources of nonheme iron, but they rely on vitamin C to be fully absorbed by the body.
Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C. Oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes all contain a large amount of this important vitamin. One medium size orange provides over 75% of the daily requirement for vitamin C. You can also add broccoli and brussels sprouts to your diet as sources of vitamin C.
Enriched Grains and Cereals
Most of the iron people get comes from nonheme foods. This is also the type that is used to enrich foods such as breads and cereals. Brown rice, fortified cereals and wheat germ are examples of good sources of nonheme iron.
Expert medical treatment along with a diet geared to fight anemia will have you feeling and looking your best again. The doctors at PCP for Life will help you identify the cause of your anemia. Make an appointment with us today and get back on the road to health.