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11 foods to help manage anemia

Anemia is among the most common blood disorders, where a person has fewer red blood cells than required or lower levels of a protein called hemoglobin (found in red blood cells). Healthcare providers may suggest several treatments to help people recover if they suffer from this condition. They may also recommend eating healthy foods that gradually improve the body’s red blood cell count and control the other effects of anemia, like blood pressure changes.

Eggs
Those who eat eggs may benefit significantly from their vitamins. Eggs are rich in vitamin B12, which is essential in maintaining proper blood flow. They are also rich in vitamin A (retinol), which promotes iron absorption. That’s not all. The breakfast favorite contains other healthy nutrients like iron and protein that could help manage the effects of anemia. Eggs are low in saturated fat and make a delicious meal, especially when combined with whole grains and dark leafy vegetables.

Watermelon
This water-rich fruit is among the top choices for increasing hemoglobin levels. Watermelon is rich in vitamin C, which may help better absorb iron into the body. Health agencies indicate that about 100 grams of watermelon contains 0.2 milligrams of iron. One could cut the fruit into various shapes, blend it into a juice, or make a smoothie to enjoy its health benefits.

Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper’s spicy flavor comes from a phytochemical called capsaicin. Capsaicin helps promote blood flow to the tissues by lowering blood pressure and stimulating the release of nitric oxide and other compounds that help expand the blood vessels. Besides providing these benefits, cayenne pepper can help control plaque build-up in the arteries, reducing the risk of several other health conditions. Several manufacturers also use spicy peppers, such as cayenne pepper, in pain-relieving creams.

Pomegranate
This juicy and sweet fruit is incredibly beneficial for those with anemia. Pomegranates are abundant in polyphenol antioxidants and nitrates, which help expand the blood vessels and control the effects of anemia. One could enjoy pomegranate as a raw fruit or drink its juice to reap health benefits like improved blood flow and oxygenation of muscle tissue. One should speak to an expert about how much pomegranate they should include in their daily meals.

Onions
While onions may have an unpleasant odor, they are one of the healthiest choices for those with a low blood count. The food contains an exceptional amount of flavonoid antioxidants, which benefit heart health by protecting the arteries and veins when blood flow increases. Onions are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They can improve blood flow and heart health by reducing inflammation in veins and arteries.

Cinnamon
This spice offers multiple health benefits, including blood pressure control. A group of people who consumed cinnamon as a part of a study showed a reduction in blood pressure after 90 days compared to a group that did not eat the spice. Other research indicates cinnamon has a more favorable effect on diastolic blood pressure than systolic blood pressure.

Salmon
Fatty fish like salmon provide several health benefits to everyone, including those with blood disorders like anemia. The omega-3 fatty acids in these fish help with circulation by promoting the release of nitric oxide. This compound dilates the blood vessels and increases blood flow. It may also inhibit the clumping of platelets in the blood, a process that might result in blood clot formation. Besides salmon, individuals with anemia could eat other fatty fish like mackerel and herring. However, one should speak to an expert before altering their meal regime.

Beetroot
Beetroots are rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. This compound helps relax blood vessels and increases blood flow to muscle tissue. One could eat beetroots, drink their juice, or even speak to their healthcare expert about using powdered beetroot to enjoy the health benefits of the food. Studies show those who drank about one cup of beetroot juice daily noticed reduced blood pressure, clotting time, and blood vessel inflammation.

Garlic
This herb is popular for its positive impact on circulation and heart health. Experts indicate garlic’s sulfur compounds, including allicin, may increase blood flow to the tissues and lower pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. One may consume garlic in its raw or powdered form or mix it in meal preparations to nourish the body. Another well-known food to manage blood flow is ginger. The staple spice is rich in natural polyphenols, which may help reduce high blood pressure and improve blood flow in anemia patients.

Chocolate
Those who love chocolate will be glad to hear that the food could help improve the body’s red blood cell count. Chocolates help improve copper absorption, which is known to support the production of red blood cells. However, one should enjoy chocolates in moderation because they usually contain other ingredients that might be unhealthy for the body.

Spinach
Leafy green vegetables like spinach are high in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Studies have shown that people who follow a traditional Japanese meal regime high in nitrate-rich vegetables like spinach may benefit from lowered blood pressure compared to those who follow a meal plan low in such vegetables.

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