Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become stiff and form an abnormal sickle shape. Normal red blood cells are shaped like discs, which enables them to move easily in blood vessels. Sickled red blood cells stick together and block blood vessels, causing decreased blood flow to body organs. Certain foods can help prevent sickling of RBCs in patients with sickle cell anemia.
Folic Acid Rich Foods
Patients with sickle cell anemia should consume foods rich in folic acid, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps the body make new red blood cells. Sickled red blood cells do not last for very long and in order to prevent anemia, patients need to make new red blood cells regularly. Doctors may also suggest that patients take a folic acid supplement. Examples of folic acid rich foods include spinach, kale, mustard greens and collard greens.
Balanced Diet
Patients with sickle cell anemia should consume a balanced diet containing plenty of fruits and vegetables in order to fight infections, according to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention. Infections are a major cause of sickle cell crisis in patients with sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell crisis occurs when sickled red blood cells block blood vessels that transport blood to the bones, according to FamilyDoctor.org. This leads to sharp or throbbing pain in the legs, arms, back, stomach and knees.
Fluids
Patients with sickle cell anemia should increase water intake to avoid sickle cell crisis. Fluids dilute blood and prevent the sickling of red blood cells. Patients should drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Patients should increase water intake during warm weather and also while engaging in strenuous physical activities. This prevents dehydration, which is another major cause of sickle cell crisis.
