Tips to Improve the Diet of Anemics

Blood testing is the only way to know for certain if a person is anemic. If a diagnosis of anemia is given, patients are generally given a diet to follow by their physicians that is tailored around the type of anemia the patient has. Patients may also be given a multi-vitamin and iron supplement. Food guidelines that are given to patients should be followed. Patients should be alerted that the food and drink choices they make on a day-to-day basis can help or hinder anemia.

Increase Iron Intake

• Individuals should not take an iron supplement without their doctor's advisement. However, people who suffer from anemia can benefit from foods that are high in iron, such as red meat, liver, fish, chicken, beans and green leafy vegetables. Pregnant women should be cautious about eating too much liver as it can cause a vitamin A overload.

Increase Vitamin B12 Intake

• Along with eating foods that are rich in iron, people who suffer from anemia should also consume foods that contain vitamin B12. These include eggs, cheese, milk, pork and beef. Vegetarians who suffer from anemia will need to consume cereals that are fortified with vitamin B12 and add yeast extract to their diets.

What to Avoid

• Individuals who suffer from anemia should avoid things that inhibit iron being absorbed in the body. These include alcohol, beer, cola, coffee, tea and bran. Individuals who want something sweet to drink should drink citrus juices because they are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C assists with iron absorption.

Herbs for Anemia

• There are many herbs that serve as a great source of iron, vitamin C and other minerals that work well for someone who is anemic. These include dandelion, yellow dock, alfalfa, bilberry, goldenseal, shepherd's purse and more. It should be noted that people who are being treated with anemia should consult their physicians before beginning any herbs to treat anemia.