Anemia is a blood disorder in which the body’s red blood cell count is less than what it needs for proper functioning. It can be caused by a number of things such as heavy menstruation or blood loss from gastric ulcers; women and those suffering from chronic diseases are at the greatest risk for developing this condition. However, the good news is that this is a disease which can be greatly helped by good dietary management and below are seven foods which can bring back red blood cell counts to normal levels and greatly improve the quality of life.
Beetroot
Due to its high iron content, beets are great for those who suffer from iron deficiency anemia, the most common type of this condition. It also helps to cleanse the body and make it more efficient at the delivery of oxygen and thus help increase the red blood cell count. It is also high in nutrients such as fiber, potassium, sulfur and an array of vitamins.
Blackstrap Molasses
Blackstrap molasses is incredibly nutrient-rich and provides generous amounts of iron as well as B vitamins and other nutrients that are needed for the production of red blood cells. As little as one tablespoon of molasses can provide up to 15% of the daily recommended intake of iron and this is a truly delicious way to help treat anemia!
Spinach
Spinach and other leafy green vegetables are also rich in iron and the B6 and folic acids which it also contains can help increase energy levels and fight off the fatigue that anemia often brings with it. A one-half cup serving can give around 35 percent of the daily needed iron intake and can be added easily to soups or salads or even made into a juice.
Pomegranate
This fruit is mineral rich, containing high amounts of calcium and magnesium as well as iron, but the fact that it is also high in Vitamin C makes it can even better choice for treatment of anemia, since Vitamin C will enhance the body’s absorption of iron and makes it easier for the body to increases its red blood cell numbers as well as hemoglobin level.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a great part of dietary treatment of anemia since they are also very high in iron, with a fourth-cup serving giving around one-third of the recommended daily iron intake. They are easy to put into salads, casseroles, stir-fries and other dishes to increase their iron content.
Dates
Dates are not only a rich source of iron, they are also – like pomegranates – high in Vitamin C, making it easier for the body to absorb that iron and begin to build up the red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels.
Bananas
Not only are they rich in iron, but bananas contain magnesium, which the body requires for hemoglobin production. It also helps stimulate enzymes that are necessary for the formation of red blood cells, making this fruit one of the perfect foods for anemia treatment.
Anemia is a serious condition. However, it is treatable and much of this treatment is able to come from the diet. A nutrition-based approach to treating anemia is natural, safe and can lead to higher energy levels and an overall better quality of life.
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