1. Getting to Know Iron
Iron is an important mineral for the body, as it combines with protein and copper to make hemoglobin, the element in blood which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen. Anemia caused by iron deficiency is a common problem in the United States, and is aggravated by diets which limit meats, the best sources of iron. If you follow a fruitarian diet, it is important to know the warning signs of iron deficiency which include pale skin, fatigue, constipation, nosebleeds, brittle, dull nails, difficulty breathing and peptic ulcers. Another of the many common signs of anemia caused by iron deficiency is pica, or a craving to eat non-food items, most commonly dirt. Making sure that you get enough iron in your diet is the best way to eat for anemia as a fruitarian.
2. What Not to Drink
Certain factors can inhibit the absorption of iron in the body, an important fact to be aware of, particularly if you already have a limited intake of iron. Tea, coffee and liquid antacids are among the largest culprits, so try to limit them as much as possible. At the very least, try to leave an hour or two between meals and iron-inhibiting drinks.
3. A Little Goes a Long Way
To prevent anemia as a fruitarian it is important that you include iron rich foods with each and every meal. Fruit generally has low levels of iron, and you may need to incorporate another method as well; however, including watermelon, grapefruit, prune juice, strawberries, apples, oranges and bananas will surely help. Don't forget tomatoes and avocados, often mistaken for vegetables, which are two more iron-rich fruits that will do your body good.
4. The Boost Your Body Needs
While certain substance inhibit absorption of iron, others can enhance absorption, so including them in your diet is a great way to eat for anemia. Vitamins C and E as well as calcium, copper and B6 all make the list of iron helpers. If eating a fruit rich diet, you should already be getting plenty of vitamin E and C; however, avocados can help with copper and bananas have lots of B6. As for calcium, it is the most plentiful mineral in the body, but unfortunately is not found in high quantities in fruit, so you might consider a supplement of 1,000 to 1,500 mg per day.
5. Doctor Knows Best
If you are a fruitarian and suffer from anemia, it's time to see your doctor about iron pills, as a deficiency can be difficult to reverse with a fruit diet alone. Because there is potential for toxicity, it is important that you see your doctor and do not self-medicate. Remember, be patient, as anemia can take several months to respond to iron supplements.
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