Anemia is caused by the lack of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) to carry sufficient oxygen to the tissues. This can be due to acute blood loss, the body’s inability to make RBCs, or the destruction of these cells. The condition can be managed by making changes in lifestyle and eating habits. Eating nutrient-rich foods is essential, as proper nutrition can help address the underlying causes of anemia and alleviate symptoms.

Foods to eat

1. Dark leafy greens like spinach
Kale, spinach, collard greens, Swiss chard, and dandelion greens are all great sources of nonheme iron, which is essential for healthy living. Swiss chard and collard, specifically, are also high in folate. Eating folate-rich foods is necessary to avoid folate deficiency anemia.

2. Organ meat like liver
Liver, heart, kidney, and beef tongue are some popular organ meat choices rich in iron. That said, it is essential to ensure that the meat is hygienic, sustainably sourced, and toxin-free.

3. Seafood like tuna
Seafood is known to be a good source of heme iron. Fish like tuna, mackerel, pompano, fresh perch, salmon, or even mahimahi are rich in heme iron. Those who articularly like shellfish can have oysters, clams, crabs, shrimps, and scallops, as these too are good sources of iron.

4. Blackstrap molasses
Studies show that molasses are rich in vitamin B6, magnesium, selenium, and calcium. All these are essential nutrients that help keep anemia symptoms at bay.

5. Beans
Beans are a preferred choice for getting protein and iron for vegetarians. They are easy to cook and can be stored in the pantry or freezer for several weeks or months. Kidney beans, chickpeas, pinto beans, peas, lima beans, black-eyed peas, black beans, and soybeans are some of the popular choices to add to one’s meal regimen.

6. Meat and poultry
It is essential to incorporate venison, lamb, and red meat into one’s meals to get heme iron. Those with anemia can also have chicken and other poultry options; however, they have less iron than other types of meats. One must make sure to include enough foods rich in vitamin C, as it helps in absorbing iron.

Some may need medicinal help, and their doctor might prescribe them AFSTYLA®, containing Factor VIII, an essential blood-clotting protein. This is specifically for those individuals who need to reduce excessive blood loss. AFSTYLA® helps manage frequent blood loss episodes caused by conditions like hemophilia A.