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However, there are
two common forms of anemia. Here we are just going to talk
about iron deficiency anemia.
Iron deficiency
anemia is, as the name implies, the result of a dietary
deficiency which can be overcome by securing enough iron.
Iron is a mineral found in nature and when consumed, through
fruits and vegetables, is used by the body in the
manufacture of hemoglobin.
In treating iron
deficiency anemia, most doctors prescribe their patients
patented medicines containing iron and other vitamins which
tend to be worthless in treating anemia. These pills may
contain small amounts of iron or if high in iron the body
will not absorb it correctly, making the pills useless.
Most often an
adequate diet and plenty of rest will do more to restore a
person to a normal, healthy condition than any combination
of pills designed to treat anemia. An adequate diet for
those with iron deficiency anemia will be a diet rich in
foods high in iron. Some of the natural foods with the
highest content of iron are listed below:
Foods high in
iron:
Apricot: This fruit
ranks immediately behind liver as a source of iron. Apricots
should be a regular item on your shopping list because they
can do much to build and replenish your blood supply.
Beet greens: A very
valuable food! Beet greens are an extraordinary source
of vitamins A and B-2. Beet greens are also of great value
in enriching your blood with iron and manganese.
Chard: This too
little used vegetable is an excellent source of Vitamin
A and iron.
Corn: Rich in iron
and copper, corn is also a good source of vitamins A and C.
Eggs: Its protein
content equals that of organ meats. Eggs are rich in all
minerals, including iron, and B vitamins. Eggs are good
breakfast food, containing stable amounts of energy. Hard
boiled eggs are easily digested.
Figs: Good laxative
quality, rich in iron and B Vitamins. Figs are excellent
substitutes for unnatural sweets.
Kale: Is and
excellent source of Vitamin A and provides a good supply of
vitamins B and C. Kale contains high amounts of iron,
calcium and potassium. Eat kale twice a week at the very
least.
Molasses: Provide
an excellent source of iron and therefore are a must food
in the diet of anyone with iron deficiency anemia. Molasses
should be substituted for sugar and candy anytime.
Raisins: Another
excellent food for those suffering from anemia, raisins are
very high in iron. Raisins are also highly alkaline foods,
making them helpful in overcoming acid conditions.
Spinach: This super
food is an excellent source of Vitamin A and iron. Spinach
should be a regular part of everyone’s diet and may be
served lightly steamed as a vegetable, raw in salads or
mixed with other cooked vegetables or eggs.
Anemia
Recipe: “Blood
Building Salad”
Spinach
Raisins
Prunes
Avocado
Carrot
Hard boiled eggs
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