by Anne Christie

Created on: February 26, 2009

Anemia is caused by the decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBC's) or the amount of hemoglobin (which gives the blood its color) in the blood. With the decrease of RBC's or hemoglobin, this leads to a decrease of the amount of oxygen carried by the blood. Thus, there is less oxygen to the cells. With less oxygen to the cells, there is less cellular energy, therefore they are less efficient and can't repair and replace themselves as quickly. This can lead to a loss of muscular activity, decreased mental alertness and dizziness which are caused by a decrease in the amount of oxygen to the brain.

Here are some tips and ways to naturally increase the absorption of iron in your body which will increase the oxygenation of your blood:

1. Foods high in Vitamin C will help increase iron absorption by the body, so be sure to eat at least one food high in Vitamin C along with those high in iron at mealtimes.

2. Eating fish when eating iron rich vegetables will increase iron absorption.

3. Do not give children cow's milk before their first birthday, as it can cause them to develop anemia. Cow's milk interferes with iron absorption and can lead to internal bleeding in young children. The University of Iowa published a study showing that stool samples of children fed cow's milk was five times that of children who were fed formula. They concluded that the amount of iron babies (children under age one) lost was "nutritionally important."

4. Foods high in oxalic acid interfere with iron being absorbed by the body, so try to eliminate them from your diet. These foods include: almonds, cashews, chocolate, cocoa, kale, rhubarb, soda, sorrel, spinach, Swiss chard, and most nuts & beans.

5. Avoid beer, sugar, candy bars, dairy products, ice cream, coffee and black tea as they interfere with iron absorption.

The Top Ten Foods to Eat

These foods are the highest in natural iron content (over 5mg/serving) and at least one should be integrated in the diet daily:

kidney beans, pinto beans, liver, blackstrap molasses, rice bran, raw beet greens, lentils, mustard greens, dried peaches and prune juice.

Foods High in Iron (3-5 mg iron/serving)

These foods should be consumed on a regular basis:

cooked or dried apricots, cooked beet greens, dry and fresh peas, cooked spinach, dates, chili, lean: lamb, turkey or veal.

How to Use Black Strap Molasses

Black strap molasses: For adults take one Tablespoon twice daily. For children: Take one Teaspoon in glass of milk or formula twice daily. Black strap

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>