My new diet of having iron deficiency
A little backstory,
I’ve been dealing with iron deficiency when I was a teenager. I have lost a lot of blood due to my menstrual cycle and due to that my blood count was so low. In the year of 2004 I almost lost my life due to my low iron. Yes I’m anemic too, so I eat ice all the time like it’s a snack. This week I went to the doctor because I called a cold, but my body was still not feeling right so I went to urgent care to see what else is going on throughout my body. So I went in the medical check-in room so they can check my vital, and my blood pressure once I was hooked up to the monitor, my heart rate was going super fast that was not normal so I tried to relax and stay calm. Once I stayed calm and relax my heart rate was normal. So the doctor wanted me to get my blood drawn due to my history of iron and once I got the results back, my iron was so low again so instantly I wanted to change my diet so I can start eating foods that contain iron. I’m going to intake a lot of rich iron foods, including taking my iron vitamins, so I can get my levels up to par because I don’t want to have another scary moment like that again.
So has anybody else have anemic or has iron deficiency? That you can share or any foods that are good for me to try that has a good source of iron. It would be great for ya’ll to share with me? ❤️❤️❤️ #irondeficiency #medical #anemic #health #blackwomen
Dealing with iron deficiency seriously impacts everyday life, especially for those with heavy menstrual bleeding or other health conditions that reduce iron levels. When iron is low, symptoms like fatigue, rapid heart rate, and unusual cravings such as ice eating (known as pica) often occur — just as described in the shared experience. Fortunately, there are many natural ways to support iron levels through diet. Iron is an essential mineral that helps transport oxygen via red blood cells. For people with iron deficiency anemia, increasing dietary iron and proper supplementation are crucial. There are two types of dietary iron: heme iron found in animal products like red meat, poultry, and fish, and non-heme iron from plant-based sources such as spinach, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals. Heme iron is absorbed more efficiently by the body, so including a variety of these foods can help increase iron levels. Vitamin C-rich foods (like oranges, bell peppers, and strawberries) are also beneficial because they improve iron absorption when eaten alongside iron-containing meals. Avoiding some inhibitors of iron absorption such as coffee, tea, and high-calcium foods during iron-rich meals may also help maintain better iron status. Many with iron deficiency also benefit from iron supplements, but these should be taken under medical supervision to avoid side effects and monitor progress. It's essential to listen to your body and consult your healthcare provider regularly, especially if symptoms worsen or you experience extreme fatigue or heart issues. Sharing experiences with others facing iron deficiency can be supportive and provide new ideas for managing the condition. For those navigating this challenge, incorporating a balanced diet rich in diverse iron sources, attentive supplementation, and mindful lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life. Always remember that each case is unique, and working closely with medical professionals ensures the safest, most effective approach to managing iron deficiency.
