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Healing Anemia Naturally

Low Iron, Potassium Rich Foods

Anemia is ultimately a lack of hemoglobin – the molecule found in the blood that carries oxygen throughout the different systems of the body and then releases it for cell use. There are many causes of anemia, but the most common, and most treatable is an iron-deficiency. Iron-deficiency is due to a lack of iron, or poor absorption of iron. For a healthy level of iron, it is crucial for the body to be in optimum health. A balanced, mineral focused diet, exercise, and the addition of herbs will work together to tone the body, allowing it to return to its natural balance.

There are three goals when treating anemia – increasing the red blood cell count, facilitating iron absorption, and increasing the body’s intake of the B vitamins and folic acid. This can all be accomplished through a consuming a balanced diet, while at the same time, avoiding foods that inhibit iron-absorption, or leach minerals from the body. There are many iron-rich foods, and many other supporting foods containing nutrients that will help the body absorb iron, and increase overall health.

It is important to consume iron on a regular basis. Liver, organ meats, seafood and chicken are all good sources of iron. Red meat, however, inhibits iron absorption, so they should be eaten in moderation. A vegetarian diet is actually a remedy for anemia if care is taken to eat a variety of foods. Minerals from vegetable and herbs are more easily absorbed into the bloodstream than meat and poultry. Molasses, dark leafy greens, lentils, eggs, yams, figs, and raisins are all excellent sources of iron. Secondary sources include whole grains, nuts, beans, beets, apples, and apricots.

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Potassium rich foods will enrich red blood cell count, so include bananas, sunflower seeds, broccoli, and kiwi on a regular basis. Manganese and vitamin C are necessary for iron absorption. Eat plenty of citrus fruits, pineapple, and the cruciferous vegetable for vitamin C. Eggs, nuts, beans, and grains are not only good sources of iron, but also of manganese. Yogurt, miso, and soy-foods are also a wise addition for their beneficial bacteria and they are significant sources of vitamin B-12. A simple remedy for anemia is a spoonful of blackstrap molasses twice a day. Also, try mixing nutritional yeast with molasses, wheat germ, and dried sea greens. This can be used as a mineral-rich topping for other foods.

There are many things that can inhibit the body’s ability to absorb iron, as well as many other minerals. Some foods should be avoided altogether, while others should be kept at minimum. Additives, found in dairy products, candy, beer, and soft drinks block nutrient uptake. Also coffee, which contains polyphenols, and tea because of its high tannin levels, should be taken sparingly. Oxalic acid also interferes with iron absorption. Some foods contain both iron and oxalic acid. They can and should still be eaten, but only in moderation. They are almonds, kale, rhubarb, spinach, swiss chard, nuts, and beans.

Herbs are a wonderful way to enhance the body’s condition. They are packed with nutrients and phytochemicals that are readily absorbed into the blood stream. Unlike foods, herbs strengthen and tone different systems of the body as well, making them a crucial part of total health. Herbs that will heal anemia are alfalfa, dandelion, red raspberry leaf, yellow dock, and nettles. Nettles, above all are often recommended by natural healers to treat anemia. They are excellent sources of iron, vitamin C, and chlorophyll. They can be taken as a tea, drunk 1-3 times a day. As an alternative, take a dropperful of fresh nettle leaf tincture, diluted in a glass of juice or water, 1-3 times daily. Dried nettles may be more difficult to find, but the tincture should be carried in any health food store. Also, the Chinese herb, Donq quai is a blood tonic, and is also available in most health food stores.

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Finally, daily exercise is an integral part to remedying anemia. A twenty or thirty minute walk every afternoon will increase blood circulation and oxygen uptake. Stay away from cigarette smoke, an unnecessary toxin, and avoid pesticides, as well as fluorescent lighting, which leaches minerals from the body.

If facing signs of anemia – chronic fatigue, dizziness, pallor, confusion – the first step is to seek medical care. Anemia, if left unchecked can have serious repercussions. As the body faces prolonged challenges from a reduction in energy due to insufficient oxygen for cells, vital organs have trouble functioning normally. Also, there is a danger of taking iron supplements. A simple blood test can screen for low iron levels. Although iron-deficiency can easily be treated with natural remedies, all forms of anemia should be monitored by a health care practitioner.

Sources:

Page, Linda Ph.D., N.D. Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone, 11th Edition (Quality Books, Inc., March 2003).

Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition (Penguin Group, 2006).