A low blood count, also known as reduced red blood cell volume or anemia, is a common health problem, especially among seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 19 percent of nursing home residents suffer from this health problem. Red blood cells are required by your body to transport oxygen to your tissues. Before using diet and nutrition to help treat your anemia, consult your primary care provider.
Anemia and Health
Anemia is a condition that commonly affects critically ill individuals. According to Anemia.org, about 50 percent of people in intensive care units suffer from a low red blood cell count. Other populations at risk for developing anemia include people with heart disease, cancer, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C. Women who experience heavy menstrual flow may also be susceptible to reduced red blood cell numbers. If you have anemia, you may feel fatigue, dizziness and dyspnea, or shortness of breath.
A Helpful Diet
Some dietary strategies may be helpful in raising your low red blood cell count. Two of the most important foods in treating this health problem, notes naturopathic physicians Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, co-authors of "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," are dark green leafy vegetables and calf's liver. Other helpful foods to ingest to help treat your anemia include squash, turnip greens, whole grains and yams. Consider avoiding ice cream, soft drinks, coffee, beer and candy bars.
Featured Food
Squash may be a beneficial food in treating your low blood count, especially if your low blood count is associated with iron deficiency. Squash, especially winter squash, contains a significant amount of vitamin C. The National Anemia Action Council states that increasing your consumption of vitamin C-containing foods can improve your body's ability to absorb iron. Other important nutrients contained in winter squash include vitamin C, potassium, manganese, folate and omega-3 fatty acids.
Warning
Anemia may be caused by numerous possible health problems. If you experience the characteristic signs and symptoms associated with this health problem, schedule an appointment with your doctor for a full and thorough examination of your condition. A health care provider who has advanced training in clinical nutrition can counsel you on the most effective foods to eat to help resolve your health problem. A larger body of scientific research evidence may be necessary to validate the proposed health benefits of certain foods traditionally used in treating this condition.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Anemia
- Anemia.org: Anemia Statistics
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.; 1998
- National Anemia Action Council: Anemia and Nutrition
