Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin and increased red blood cell destruction. Affected people are frequently deficient in a variety of micronutrients including vitamin E. Although there is no cure for sickle cell disease, a nutritionally balanced diet including vitamins and other supplements potentially helps lessen the effects of the disorder.
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a group of genetic abnormalities of the hemoglobin molecule passed down from both parents to their children, according to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. Hemoglobin is the molecule in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen to your tissues. The abnormal hemoglobin in sickle cell disease causes red cells to become more rigid, which in turn leads to shorter survival of the cells in the circulation and blockage of small blood vessels. Episodes of more rapid destruction also occur, sometimes prompted by dehydration, poor blood oxygenation or infection. These episodes, or crises, lead to worsening of anemia, pain in different body sites and progressive damage to organs such as the spleen, kidneys and liver.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is one of the fat-soluble vitamins, meaning your body is able to store it for future use. This storage ability also means toxicity is possible if the vitamin is taken in excess. A wide variety of food sources contain vitamin E, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, meats and eggs, and deficiency is rare among healthy people, according to MedlinePlus. The vitamin is important for the normal function of your body's organs, and is also a recognized antioxidant that can help slow certain processes that might damage cells.
Vitamin E and Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell patients have greater than normal dietary requirements, including those for vitamin E, according to NutritionMD.org. Blood levels of vitamin E are often low in these people, along with the levels of other antioxidants. Studies suggest that reversing these antioxidant deficiencies might reduce the amount of irreversible red cell change and accompanying complications of sickle cell disease. The evidence for this beneficial effect remains inconclusive at this time.
Other Micronutrient Deficiencies
In addition to vitamin E, sickle cell patients tend to require greater amounts of calories and several other nutrients than the general population. Low blood levels of vitamin A, B6 and C, magnesium, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found. The reason for these deficiencies is not well understood, but particularly in children the effects can include poor growth and possibly worsening of their disease. A complete evaluation of nutritional status and supplement levels is often recommended.
Dietary Recommendations
No medical cure for sickle cell disease is currently available, although certain medications and blood transfusions can help maintain optimum health and prevent crises. This preventive approach should include a high-calorie balanced diet with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Vitamin, mineral and omega-3 fatty acid supplements might also be indicated based on on-going nutritional assessments. Good fluid intake to avoid dehydration is important as well.
