Health Photos
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Haemoglobin (Hb) deficiency results in anaemia and can be caused due to various reasons. In case of iron deficiency anaemia, the treatment includes taking iron supplements and food rich in iron. It is believed that iron from animal sources is more beneficial in increasing haemoglobin levels than that from plant sources.
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The iron found in animal sources is called haeme (ferrous, Fe 2+), which is highly available for absorption and usually 20-30% of it is absorbed from the diet. Shell fish, chicken, liver, beef, red meat, turkey, fish, pork etc. are good sources of iron.
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Guavas help treat iron-deficiency anaemia and are also believed to prevent leukaemia.
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Non-haeme iron of vegetable sources (breads, cereals, green vegetables, pulses, dried fruits etc.) is relatively poorly absorbed. Vegetarians thus need more iron in their diets than non-vegetarians and should choose several iron-rich plant foods daily.
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It will be more beneficial if you take vitamin C supplements or foods rich in vitamin C along with the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia. Vitamin C helps in the increased absorption of iron in the body and thereby increases haemoglobin levels.
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Deficiency of folic acid could result in low haemoglobin. Eating pumpkins that are rich in vitamins and folic acid could thus raise Hb levels.
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Tamarind leaves are excellent source for raising haemoglobin. Iron blockers like tea, coffee, milk etc. should be avoided and iron supplements and vitamin C should be taken for better absorption of foods rich in iron.
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Adding equal portions of beet juice, orange juice and carrot juice and drinking it before breakfast help raise haemoglobin level.
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Foods like eggs, dark vegetables, green leaves, dried fruits, nuts and beans are also rich in iron.
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Iron supplements should be taken as per the prescription of your doctor. Some of the iron tablets can cause constipation and stomach upsets.
