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Anemia is a disease caused by a lack of blood or a decrease in red blood cells and hemoglobin, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to various organs and tissues in the body. This disease can lead to the appearance of several symptoms such as fatigue, tiredness, weakness, pallor and nausea, and can be treated with food and dietary adjustments.
Foods that cure anemia are rich in iron, such as liver, red meat or beans, but consuming some food rich in vitamin C, such as orange, lemon or strawberry, in the same meal is also important because vitamin C improves the absorption of iron at the intestinal level.
1. Meat
Red meats contain a lot of iron and vitamin B12, which is why they should be consumed about 2 to 3 times a week to fight anemia. White meats also contain iron, but in lesser quantities, so you can alternate between one day of red meat and another day of white meat such as chicken or turkey.
2. Kidneys, liver or chicken heart
Some specific parts of meat, such as kidneys, liver and chicken heart also contain a lot of iron and vitamin B12 and should be eaten in a healthy way, grilled or cooked, but not every day.
3. Barley or wholemeal bread
Barley and wholemeal bread are high in iron, so people with anemia should replace white bread with this type of bread.
4. Dark vegetables
Vegetables such as parsley, spinach or arugula are not only rich in iron, they are also a source of calcium, vitamins, beta-carotene and fiber, great for maintaining the body's balance. So, a good way to use them is by adding them to salads or soups.
5. Beet
Due to its high iron content, beets are also great for fighting anemia. A good way to use it is by mixing this vegetable in salads or making juices, which should be taken daily. Here's how to make beet juice.
6. Black beans
Black beans are rich in iron, but to improve their absorption, it is important to accompany the meal of black beans, with citrus juice for example, because these fruits are rich in vitamin C which improves the absorption of iron.
7. Fruits with vitamin C
Fruits with vitamin C, such as orange, lemon, tangerine, grapefruit, strawberry, pineapple, acerola, cashew, passion fruit, pomegranate or papaya, are rich in vitamin C, which is very important to enhance the absorption of iron present in food, therefore , it is recommended to eat some of these foods source of vitamin C. See an example of menu in How to make a diet rich in iron to cure anemia.
These dietary changes will guarantee the amount of iron needed, increasing the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. However, knowing the type of anemia and its cause is fundamental to the success of the treatment.
Find out what to eat to cure anemia faster in the video: