Anemic? Not Me!

Anemia, is caused from a lack of iron in the diet, it is the most common nutritional deficiency disease in this country.  Symptoms include immune disorders in the tigue, muscle weakness and childhood learning problems.  Studies have shown that the overwhelming majority of women take in less iron than they need.  Again, more than 20 percent of American women are at high risk of anemia, particularly during their menstrual periods.  Men are generally not in such danger, except when they may have blood loss from a disease (such as ulcers) or from dieting in a way that robs their body of valuable iron and protein.

In order to prevent anemia, women must make sure they take in as much iron as possible through dietary sources. A women’s daily requirement is 18 milligrams.

Eating Tips to Fight Anemia:

Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. This will allows the body to absorb iron more effectively.  The more iron you put in at one time, the less the body absorbs. 

Have protein with with every snack and meal, as protein enhances your iron absorption. 

Eat fruits high in vitamin C (citrus, strawberries and pineapple) and vegetables from the cabbage family (broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower spinach, green beans) at your meals and snacks.  Vitamin C enhances your absorption of iron.

Avoid drinking tea, colas and coffee with your meals or snacks, as these contain tannic acid, which hinders your absorption of iron.

Women:  Most women don’t know that they can build their iron levels by just eating the right foods and drinking the right drinks.  The healthy way to build your iron level is from foods,