Nutrition In Thalassemia
Author: Leticia Celentano
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
People with thalassemia can control their condition by avoiding foods rich in iron.
Thalassemia is a genetic condition for which there are no age restrictions. People suffering from this disease fail to produce enough hemoglobin, which can lead to very serious anemia. Hemoglobin is formed in red blood cells and is responsible for transporting oxygen to every part of the body. People with thalassemia can control their condition by avoiding foods rich in iron. Iron overload is a potential danger for most sufferers of the disease.
Certain medications help keep iron levels in the body under control. Foods high in the element, such as beef, should be avoided. Iron in meat is easily absorbed by the body, unlike in cereals and bread.
Patients with thalassemia should avoid cooking in iron pans. In addition, some drinks, such as orange juice, can cause the body to absorb iron.
On the other hand, drinks such as coffee, tea and dairy products can reduce iron.
Allowed foods
CerealsCereals such as wheat bran, corn, oats, rice and soy can reduce iron absorption, but only if not consumed with foods rich in vitamin C, such as orange juice. You can drink milk with cereals. Soy protein can also help reduce the body's absorption of iron.
Tea, coffee and spicesCoffee, tea and spices such as oregano also reduce iron absorption. Patients with thalassemia can drink coffee and tea without restrictions.
Dairy productsMilk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products can reduce iron absorption. Choose low-fat dairy products to avoid weight gain.
Prohibited foods
- Watermelon - Watermelon is rich in nutrients and especially iron.
- Dates - Dates are usually recommended for people with low iron, so it is absolutely necessary to stop people with thalassemia.
- Green leafy vegetables - spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts are known as products rich in iron.
- Legumes - peas, lentils, beans, soybeans, etc. contain high amounts of iron.
- Raisins - also have a saturated iron content.
- Red meat - iron is more easily absorbed than meat products, so it is recommended that people with thalassemia avoid eating red meat such as beef, lamb, pork.
- Peanut Butter - Peanut butter contains a moderate amount of iron.
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