Good diet practices and measures against anemia

Posted by editor8 on Tuesday 03 Mar 2009

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Anemia is one of the most common blood-related disorders. Even though it isn’t severely fatal, it affects the normal work-life behavior of millions of sufferers around the world. Anemia has several types and causes, and its onset may spark a marked decrease in general enthusiasm and individual productivity.

Hemoglobin is a vital component of blood, as it transports oxygen from the lungs to other tissues of the body. Anemia usually results from a low production of hemoglobin, rapid destruction of red blood cells, severe loss of blood or the presence of defective red blood cells or hemoglobin in blood. In almost all cases, there is a deficiency of oxygen in blood, and this leads to fatigue, continuous listlessness, general malaise, lack of interest in activities and meals, dizziness etc.

The body becomes weak and the skin and eyes become pale-yellow in color. Severe cases may include a defective heart, palpitations and irregular behavior. Pregnant women are highly susceptible to developing anemia.

Many types of anemia have a genetic origin, for example, sickle-cell anemia. As a result, the only treatment for severely affected patients is a blood transfusion. However, with a good diet and intake of supplements, conditions of anemia can be prevented and/or reduced.

Diet

The healthy intake of iron, folic acid, Vitamin C and B-12 in the patient’s diet is very important. These components bind with oxygen and help to increase its production in blood. Foods rich in iron and folate include dark green, leafy vegetables, almonds and dried fruits, pomegranates, molasses and animal liver. Drinking raw vegetable and fruit juices proves to be very beneficial. Iron and ferrous sulphate supplements, Vit B12 supplements can also be taken. Barley and marshmallow are two other foods that are known for increasing blood production.

Patients suffering from anemia should avoid muscular exercises that involve heavy aerobic respiration (respiration using oxygen). Laborious tasks, lifting heavy objects or performing stressful activities should be avoided. Air travel is discouraged for chronic patients. Sudden shifts in temperature must be avoided, as this may cause intolerance to cold and complicate symptoms.

Among natural herbs, pippali (Piper Longum) and Tulsi (Holy Basil) have been found to increase blood cell production.

Another good example is Shilajit or Asphaltum, a herb which increases the flow of minerals throughout the body, and contains traces of iron salts. Shilajit has no side effects and can be taken once or twice daily.