Anemia, according to celebrity nutritionist Isabel Smith, MS, RD, CDN, occurs when the body's red blood cell count dips too low, thereby restricting the flow of oxygen our muscles and tissues crave in order to perform to the best of their ability. Signs and symptoms vary, but New York Nutrition Group's Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CDN, tells us they can include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, dizziness, irritability, cravings, and possibly shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or headaches. The main culprit behind the condition? Iron deficiency—and thanks to that little thing called menstruation, women are especially susceptible.
If you think you might be anemic or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, a physician should be your first visit, but there are things you can do on your own—namely, tailor your diet to include foods for anemia. "It's important to ensure you consume enough iron-rich foods, especially if you're at risk or have been diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia," explains Moskovitz. "Just increasing your consumption of iron in your diet can help better transport oxygen in your blood to correct the condition."
Though we are living in an amazing moment where we recognize the potential healing power of what we eat, it's not necessarily accurate to think of food as medicine. Yes, supplementing your diet with iron-rich foods is a great step in the right direction and can help bolster and maintain healthy iron levels, but it's just as essential to talk to your physician (and never self-diagnose).
"There are many causes of anemia and many other conditions that can spark similar symptoms," confirms Moskovitz. "Additionally, iron supplements are only necessary if you are diagnosed with iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia. They should not be taken otherwise, and you should always ask your doctor before taking any kind of supplement."
Either way, there's no harm in increasing your intake of iron-rich foods; your health will likely only be the better for it. In fact, many of Smith's and Moskovitz's recommendations are the colorful and clean kind that nutritionists recommend over and over for their litany of benefits—not just their natural iron count.
Oh, and if you're vegetarian or vegan, don't fret. Even though some of the best food sources of iron come from animals (eggs, fish, lean meat, and the like), there are plenty of plant-based options as well. Ready to start a running shopping list?
1. Dark Leafy Greens
According to Smith, there are two types of iron that can be present in food—heme, which might be better for anemia, and non-heme: "70% of heme iron (found in animal sources) can be absorbed by the body, while only about 30% of non-heme forms of iron (found in plant sources) can be absorbed by the body," she tells us. Therefore, if you rely on non-heme, you might need to up your serving sizes, as less of it will ultimately be absorbed by the body. Dark leafy greens such as spinach (Smith recommends cooking it and adding a squeeze of lemon) are a great non-heme source.
2. Nuts and Seeds
By now we know nuts and seeds are some of the most nutrient-dense foods we can snack on (healthy fats, protein, the list goes on). And according to Moskovitz, pumpkin seeds and pistachios are great, iron-rich options to keep beside your desk. Proof: Just one ounce of pistachios will provide 6.1% of your daily value.
3. Lean Red Meats
For a heavier hit of iron and 22% of your recommended daily intake, try a lean cut of grass-fed beef. To maximize iron absorption, Moskovitz suggests pairing with foods rich in vitamin C such as tomatoes, red peppers, strawberries, oranges, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli.
4. Organic Soy Beans
According to Moskovitz, soybeans (which we recommend buying organic) are a great source of non-heme iron for those who are vegan or vegetarian. Plus, they're also rich in protein and work well in main courses and snacks alike.
5. Shellfish
Seafood fans, take note! Fish, especially the shelled variety, is one of the best ways to supplement your diet if you're anemic, explain both Smith and Moskovitz. Come mealtime, they recommend shooting for roughly three ounces. (And again, a quick squeeze of lemon will only maximize its benefits and absorption.) Sardines (if you can be so brave) are another great option if you're not a fan of shellfish.
6. Quinoa
While iron-fortified cereals, grains, and pastas are indeed an option if you're looking to improve your iron levels, we suggest rerouting to a more natural pick like quinoa, which, according to Smith, is loaded with fortifying iron. And of course, other grains like amaranth, oats, spelt, Kamut, whole wheat, teff, and sorghum are excellent options as well.
7. Grilled Chicken Breast
Not a beef or seafood person? You're in luck. "A lean-cut white meat like chicken is another top food for anemia if you're able to consume heme protein from animals," says Smith. For an iron-rich entrée, try for three ounces of chicken and a side of sautéed spinach, broccoli, and tomatoes.
8. Blackstrap Molasses
A lesser-known nutrition fact: Blackstrap molasses is actually a potent, under-the-radar superfood we for some reason practically never hear about (with gingerbread season being the exception). Not only does Moskovitz cite it as one of the best foods for anemia thanks to its sky-high iron content, but it's also a nutritional powerhouse when it comes to calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and selenium. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Try adding a touch as a toast or oatmeal topping or even incorporating a spoonful into your go-to smoothie recipe. (It also lends a touch of sweetness— just keep in mind a little goes a long way.)
9. Legumes
According to Moskovitz, legumes—especially lentils—are great for anemia, as just a half-cup dishes up 3.3 milligrams and around 20% of what your body craves for the day. Plus, they're also a great source of fiber (aka, a happier gut and quelled hunger). Oh, another pro tip she shared with us? Some foods (like coffee and tea) might actually interfere with iron absorption. In other words, consider refraining from having that cup with lunch. Or at least keep your liquefied caffeine to one or two cups maximum per day if you're keeping an eye on your iron levels.
10. Organic Eggs
Last but not least: eggs. In addition to being one of our favorite breakfast staples and salad toppers, they also happen to be one of the best foods for anemia thanks to their naturally high iron levels. Pair with sautéed spinach and quinoa for a light lunch or create an iron-rich breakfast plate with eggs atop whole-grain toast, ghee or grass-fed butter, and lightly roasted tomatoes.
Next up: 9 Foods Inflammation Experts Never Eat
This post was published at an earlier date and has been recently updated.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
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