World Thalassemia Day: Foods To Eat And Avoid

Thalassemia is a condition in which is inherited genetically and can affect people of all age groups. People with thalassemia are unable to make sufficient haemoglobin, which can cause severe anaemia. Haemoglobin is found in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen to all parts of the body. People who are suffering from thalassemia can manage the condition by avoiding eating foods which are rich in iodine. This is important for people who are suffering from non-transfused intermedia thalassemia. People with non-transfused intermedia thalassemia can have tea with meals, as it can encourage absorption. Overload of iron can be possible in thalassemia patients who require regular blood transfusion. The iron from chronic blood transfusions gets stored in the liver.  

After the liver stores are full, the iron begins to accumulate in heart and pituitary gland, and this can be dangerous. Increased absorption of iron from the gut can also be a reason for iron overload in the body.

Certain medications help in keeping iron levels in the body under control. High iron foods such as beef should be avoided by children with thalassemia. Iron content in meat is easily absorbed in the body as compared to other sources of iron such breads and cereals.

 

Thalassemia patients should also avoid cooking food in iron utensils. Furthermore, certain foods like orange juice can trigger iron absorption in the body. Other foods like tea, dairy products and coffee can decrease iron in the body.

Also read: World Thalassemia Day: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment For Thalassemia

Foods to avoid if you have thalassemia

Thalassemia patients should avoid pork, liver, oysters, beans, beef, peanut butter and tofu from their diet. They should also avoid consumption of prunes and prune juice, watermelon, spinach, leafy green veggies, dates, broccoli, raisins and peas.
 

Foods to eat if you have thalassemia

Cereals

Cereals like wheat bran, maize, oats, rice and soy can decrease absorption of iron, but only if they are not consumed along with foods rich in Vitamin C such as orange juice. You can have milk with cereals. Soy protein can also contribute to decreasing iron absorption in the body.

 

Tea, coffee and spice

Coffee, tea and spices like oregano can decrease absorption of iron. Thalassemia patients can have tea and coffee in abundance.

Dairy products

Milk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products can decrease absorption of iron the body. Prefer low-fat or skimmed milk in order to keep avoid weight gain.
 

Vitamin E

Thalassemia patients should have foods rich in Vitamin E like nuts, cereals and eggs. Olive oil can also be consumed in order to increase your consumption of Vitamin E.

Calcium

People suffering from thalassemia can have plenty of foods that are rich in calcium. Calcium also helps in keeping bones strong and healthy. Seeds, almonds, dates and sardines are all sources of foods rich in iron.
 

Exercise regularly

Exercising regularly can help thalassemia patients deal with the condition quite effectively.