When the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to deliver enough oxygen to tissues, it can lead to anaemia. Symptoms of this deficiency include pale skin, weakness, dizziness, and fatigue. While medical treatment is essential, diet plays a significant role in managing and preventing anaemia.
A well-planned diet for anaemia can boost iron levels, improve haemoglobin production and ease symptoms effectively. This blog will guide you on the best food options for anaemic patients and those to avoid.
What Are the Food Options For a Diet for Anaemia Patients?
A diet that supports patients with anaemia focuses on iron-rich foods and complementary nutrients that enhance iron absorption and red blood cell production. Some good food options are as follows:
Iron is considered the most essential aspect of a diet for anaemia patients. There are two main types of iron to consider.
- Heme Iron: Found in animal-based products like liver, poultry, lean meats, and seafood.
- Non-heme Iron: This is found in plant-based foods such as beans, spinach, tofu, lentils, seeds, nuts, and fortified cereals. Although non-heme iron has a low rate of absorption, combining these sources with vitamin-C-rich foods enhances their effectiveness.
Vitamin C is essential for enhancing the body’s ability to absorb non-heme iron. To maximise iron absorption, include citrus fruits such as lemons, strawberries, and oranges, along with bell peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli.
Vitamin B9, or folate, plays a key role in the formation of red blood cells. It can be obtained from dark, leafy greens such as kale and spinach. Other folate-rich foods include fortified grains, legumes, and avocados.
A deficiency in Vitamin B12 can lead to certain types of anaemia. Consider foods rich in B12, including fish, eggs, meat, fortified plant-based milk, and dairy products.
What Are the Foods to Avoid in a Diet for Anaemia Patients?
Certain foods can inhibit iron absorption, and it is essential to limit or avoid them if suffering from anaemia. These include:
Coffee and tea have tannins that interfere with iron absorption. Similarly, calcium-rich foods like milk, yoghurt, and cheese can inhibit iron uptake when consumed with iron-rich meals.
Foods like nuts, beans, and whole grains contain phytates, which can reduce iron absorption. To maximise this effect, soak or ferment these foods before cooking.
Drinking too much alcohol can harm the lining of the stomach, hinder the absorption of nutrients, and lower the levels of vital vitamins like folate and B12.
Conclusion
A balanced diet is vital to managing anaemia effectively. Changing your diet can improve your haemoglobin levels, reduce the intensity of symptoms, and enhance your overall health. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider or dietitian for tailored recommendations based on your needs.
Health insurance plans can give access to quality medical treatment, especially if you suffer from long-term or chronic versions of anaemia or other nutrient disorders. By covering the costs of treatment, an insurance plan can also alleviate the financial burden of long-term supportive care.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.