Anemia Diet:
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Iron Deficiency Anemia
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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:
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Anemia Diet containing Heme Iron
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Excellent Sources |
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Good Sources |
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Clams
Pork Liver
Oysters
Chicken Liver
Mussels
Beef Liver
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Beef
Shrimp
Sardines
Turkey
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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.
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Iron Absorption Enhancers
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Iron Absorption Inhibitors
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- Meat/fish/poultry
- Fruits: Orange, Orange Juice, cantaloupe, strawberries, grapefruit etc
- Vegetables: Broccoli, brussels sprouts, tomato, tomato juice, potato, green & red peppers
- White wine
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- Red Wine, Coffee & Tea
- Vegetables: Spinach, chard, beet greens, rhubarb and sweet potato
- Whole grains and bran
- Soy products
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