blood increasing food - #27889
I am really confuse about this whole idea of blood increasing food because I've been feeling really fatigued and dizzy lately. My doctor said my iron levels were low and suggested I eat more blood increasing food. But honestly, what exactly counts as blood increasing food? I thought just eating red meat would do the trick, but then someone told me leafy greens like spinach are also good. I mean, how does that even work? I started to include more foods like lentils and chickpeas in my meals, but I don’t feel any better. I also checked out beef and organ meats, but I gotta admit they kind of gross me out. Is there a like a list of the best blood increasing food I should be focusing on or any tips on how to prepare them? Do things like vitamin C actually help enhance absorption? I've been trying to have orange juice with my meals but then I wonder is that enuf? Or is there a risk of eating too much of those blood increasing food? Some days I just feel overwhelmed by it all. Any advice or experience would be super appreciated!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
When your doctor mentions “blood increasing food,” they’re typically referring to foods rich in iron and those that help increase the body’s production of red blood cells. Iron is crucial for blood production, and low levels can cause fatigue and dizziness, common signs of anemia. Red meat like beef is a well-known source because it’s high in heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by our bodies than non-heme iron found in plants. If organ meats aren’t appealing, that’s understandable; there are other options like poultry or fish that are also rich in heme iron. Leafy greens, including spinach, as well as lentils and chickpeas, are indeed good sources of non-heme iron. Combining these with foods high in vitamin C, like oranges, strawberries, or bell peppers, can increase non-heme iron absorption, hence your doctor’s suggestion to pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich foods like orange juice is spot on. If you’re not feeling better, ensure you’re getting enough iron by varying your diet and, if necessary, consider an iron supplement, but only after consulting your doctor to avoid excess iron intake, which can be harmful. Balance is important. Remember, things like coffee or tea with meals can inhibit iron absorption, so it’s best to drink those between meals. You aren’t risking too much by increasing these foods in moderation, but persistent symptoms should be discussed with your healthcare provider to rule out other conditions or to adjust your dietary strategy.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.