An anemia diet usually consists of an iron-rich diet along with iron supplements. Absorption of iron from food is influenced by multiple factors. One important factor being the form of the iron. Heme Iron, found in animal sources, is highly available for absorption. Non-heme iron on the other hand, found in vegetable sources, is less available. An anemia diet may include the following foods:
Anemia Diet containing Heme Iron
Excellent Sources
Good Sources
Clams
Pork Liver
Oysters
Chicken Liver
Mussels
Beef Liver
Beef
Shrimp
Sardines
Turkey
Anemia Diet containing Non-Heme Iron
Excellent Sources
Good Sources
Enriched breakfast cereals
Cooked beans and lentils
Pumpkin seeds
Blackstrap Molasses
Canned beans
Baked potato with skin
Enriched pasta
Canned asparagus
Warning: Pregnant women should not eat liver because of
its very high Vitamin A content. Large amounts of Vitamin A can
be harmful to the baby.
The absorption of Non-heme
iron can be improved when a source of heme iron is consumed in
the same meal. In addition, the iron absorption- enhancing foods
can also increase the absorption of non-heme iron. While some
food items can enhance iron absorption, some can inhibit or interfere
iron absorption. Avoid eating them with the iron-rich food items
to maximize iron absorption.