Pumping Iron!
Apr 05, 2023Since I was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's many years ago I have struggled with anemia. For years I tried to eat more red meat to help increase my iron levels but, without fail, my annual blood work returned with low iron. At the time, I didn't realize just how much this contributed to my feelings of daily fatigue and tiredness. I was often so fatigued that it was a great effort even returning the shopping cart after loading my car with groceries. I was sleeping 9 to 10 hours a night. If I did not get enough sleep I could not function. During the days, I was always tired, and by the afternoon I felt so tired I often took a nap. For nearly thirty years I suffered the effects of low iron. It didn't matter what I did, I was always tired.
During this time I gained a greater awareness of natural therapies and decided to approached menopause more naturally. I changed my primary care doctor to a holistic doctor and my hormone medications were changed to more natural substances. I was fascinated to learned that when the body is low in one vitamin or nutrient, other nutrient levels in the body are also affected.
It wasn't until I began studying herbs that I learned of foods and herbs that could increase iron, and support the body in absorbing iron naturally. As I added some of these herbs to my daily intake, I observed a marked improvement in my overall energy levels. In fact, I felt better than I had felt in many years!
Anemia is a condition where the body lacks enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to properly transport oxygen throughout the body. This is due to too little iron in the body. Anemia can lead to feelings of weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. While medical treatment may be necessary in severe cases of anemia, there are many natural remedies that can help improve iron levels and treat anemia. Here are a few ways to increase iron naturally:
- Iron-rich Foods: One of the most important steps in naturally treating anemia is to increase the intake of iron-rich foods. Some of the best sources of iron include dark leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale. Non leafy greens include raisins, prunes, beans, and lentils. Consuming these foods on a regular basis can help increase iron levels in the body.
- Vitamin C: Consuming foods high in vitamin C can help improve iron absorption. Vitamin C helps convert iron into a more absorbable form. Some good sources of vitamin C include oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods with iron-rich foods can help enhance iron absorption.
- Blackstrap Molasses: Blackstrap molasses is a natural sweetener that is high in iron, calcium, and other minerals. It can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods. Consuming a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses daily can help increase iron levels and treat anemia.
- Nettle Tea: Nettle tea is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat anemia. It is high in iron and other minerals. To make nettle tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drink this tea 1-2 times per day.
- Foods to Avoid: Certain foods can inhibit iron absorption in the body. These include tea, coffee, dairy products, and foods high in calcium. Avoiding these foods or consuming them separately from iron-rich foods can help improve iron absorption.
- Herbs: Certain herbs can help improve iron levels in the body. Some of these herbs include spirulina, alfalfa, yellow dock, and dandelion root.
What I've learned and experienced is, anemia is a condition that can be naturally treated by increasing iron-rich foods, consuming foods high in vitamin C, adding blackstrap molasses to the diet, drinking nettle tea, avoiding certain foods that inhibit iron absorption, and taking herbs. By making these changes, individuals can improve their iron levels and overcome the symptoms of anemia naturally without side affects.
Kelly Summers, is a Master Herbalist & Natural Healing Guide®. She knows that knowledge is empowering and deeply desires to share the insights she has learned through her continued journey of learning.
References
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Spindelilus, Earendil M. The Handbook of Holistic Healing: Healing the Body Naturally. (The Tree of Life Holistic Wellness Center, CA: 2020).
