Foods to avoid when you have anemia

December 18, 2015 10:59

Here are some foods you shouldn't eat daily if you have anemia.

Eating foods rich in iron and folic acid can increase hemoglobin levels in patients, but some foods can hinder the absorption of these nutrients.

Foods containing calcium

One of the main causes of anemia is iron deficiency, and therefore, people with iron-deficiency anemia are advised to avoid calcium-rich foods because calcium interferes with iron absorption in the body, thus worsening the condition. Foods high in calcium include milk, dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, nuts, and bananas.

Foods high in tannins

Although black tea, green tea, and coffee are healthy beverages, people with iron-deficiency anemia should limit their consumption of these drinks because they contain tannins, a substance that interferes with iron absorption. Other foods containing tannins include grapes and corn.

Foods containing gluten

Foods high in gluten should be avoided by people with anemia. In some people, gluten damages the intestinal lining, hindering the absorption of iron and folic acid, both of which are essential for red blood cell production. Gluten is found primarily in pasta, wheat, barley, rye, and oats.

Foods rich in phytates

Phytates often bind to iron in the digestive tract, thus hindering iron absorption. Therefore, people with iron-deficiency anemia should avoid foods containing phytates or phytic acid, such as beans, brown rice, wheat, whole grains, and nuts.

Foods containing oxalic acid

In some cases, foods containing oxalic acid are thought to interfere with iron absorption. Therefore, people with iron-deficiency anemia are advised to limit these foods and, if possible, avoid them while taking medication. Foods containing oxalic acid include peanuts, spinach, parsley, and chocolate.

According to vov.vn

RELATED NEWS