What is Sideropenic Anemia?
Sideropenic anemia is a medical term which describes anemia caused by lack of iron in the blood. Iron is one of the essential minerals in the human body. A participant in numerous important body functions.
The most common cause of sideropenic anemia is malnutrition. This means that you’re not getting the essential nutrients in your body which can lead to iron-deficiency anemia and bigger problems. This condition causes symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, increased heart rate, brittle nails and hair, headache, and other problems.
The good news is that iron-deficiency anemia is treatable. All you need to do is raise your iron levels to normal which can be done by a proper diet. Below you can see a list of foods rich in iron which can help you defeat this type of anemia.
1. Tofu
A favorite of vegetarians, tofu is a soy-based food rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Iron is chief among them which makes it ideal for treatment of sideropenic anemia.
Additionally, tofu is full of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and magnesium. Its rich nutritional profile allows it to improve our health on many levels and prevent a variety of diseases and conditions.
2. Red Meat
Although doctors consider red meat bad for our health, it’s still a great source of iron and other nutrients. Experts recommend at least 3 pieces of red meat per week in cases of iron-deficiency anemia.
Don’t go overboard with it, though, as red meat has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Liver
Often considered a top source of iron, organ meats such as the liver have a unique nutritional profile. Animal liver is full of protein, vitamins A, C, D, and E, and traces of copper and zinc. It can be prepared in many ways. If you ask us, it goes best grilled with some vegetables.
Due to the high cholesterol levels, however, consume organ meats sparingly.
4. Spinach
Spinach is king among iron-rich vegetables. It also contains calcium, protein, and fiber, so it’s great for our overall health. The best way to get plenty of iron in your blood is to eat spinach raw. However, if you’re not fond of the flavor, you can prepare veggie lasagna or a tasty spinach puff pie. Or, you know, make a spinach omelet – it’s the simplest meal of all.
5. Pumpkin Seeds
Full of iron, phosphorus, zinc, and manganese, pumpkin seeds rule the seeds kingdom. They are great against iron-deficiency anemia as well as other problems such as enlarged prostate. You can eat a handful of pumpkin seeds every day – they are great for your overall health.
6. Dark Chocolate
A high-quality bar of dark chocolate (70% or more) is a quick fix for sideropenic anemia. It also lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases if you eat it sparingly (3-4 times per week). Dark chocolate is full of manganese, calcium, magnesium, and other important nutrients, so eat it as a snack instead of any other treat.
7. Sesame
Throw in sesame seeds in your meals and salads if you want to raise your iron levels. Full of other essential minerals, sesame is great for your blood vessels and your overall health.
8. Lentils
Lentils are a great source of iron and fiber as well. That makes the stew rarely anyone wants a great remedy for iron-deficiency anemia and digestive problems at the same time. Add lentils to your diet and your health will improve drastically over time.
9. Seafood
Seafood such as fresh salmon, halibut, tuna (fresh and canned), haddock, and perch have a lot of iron and can easily raise the levels of the mineral in your blood. Go for fresh fish instead of canned. The canned version contains a lot of calcium as well, which can bind with iron and reduce its absorption in your body.
10. Fortified Foods
Many foods you can find in markets are fortified with iron and perfect against sideropenic anemia. Fortified milk, orange juice, pasta, and cereal among others are great sources of iron. Eat them regularly and they will certainly raise your iron levels.
The good news about iron deficiency (and any other deficiency) is that you can correct it with a healthy diet. Add these foods in your diet if you lack iron and you’ll be back to your best in no time.