Some types of anemia can be managed with a healthy, balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin C, which helps your body absorb iron.
- Iron is found in red meat, poultry, and some fish. Other iron-rich foods include beans, lentils, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruit, nuts, soy, and iron-fortified cereals and breads.
- Folate is found in cereals that have added vitamins and minerals, meat, spinach, beans, citrus fruits and juices, cantaloupe, papaya, and bananas.
- Vitamin B12 is most often found in meat, fish, and dairy products, as well as certain cereals.
- Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits like oranges, melons and berries, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and kale.
Because meat is a major source of some of these nutrients, strict vegetarians may need to have periodic blood tests and discuss the need for supplements with their healthcare provider.
If you are feeling extremely tired, don’t assume that you should take iron supplements unless your healthcare provider asks you to take them. Having too much iron in your body can cause serious medical problems.
Last Updated November 2022