What foods are best for replenishing blood?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have a bit of anemia and would like to improve it through diet. Could you please tell me what foods are best for improving blood health?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

Hematopoiesis mainly involves supplementing the body's iron stores and promoting the production of red blood cells. The following foods are recommended to support hematopoiesis:

1. Red meats, such as beef and lamb, are rich in heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and makes them excellent choices for improving blood health.

2. Animal liver, such as pork liver and chicken liver, are also excellent foods for blood enhancement, as they are rich in iron and vitamin A.

3. Legumes and soy products, such as black beans, soybeans, and tofu, contain non-heme iron. When consumed together with foods rich in vitamin C, iron absorption can be enhanced.

4. Vegetables and fruits: vegetables such as spinach, Chinese cabbage, and broccoli are rich in vitamin C and folic acid; fruits like papaya, kiwifruit, and oranges are also rich in vitamin C, which helps promote blood formation and red blood cell development.

5. Nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds, are rich in iron and other minerals.

6. Red dates and wolfberries are believed in traditional Chinese medicine to have excellent blood-enhancing properties and can be used as daily dietary supplements.

7. Whole grains, such as oats and brown rice, contain iron and B-complex vitamins that contribute to healthy blood.

8. Red-colored foods, such as red dates and cherries, are rich in iron and can effectively promote blood formation.

9. Black-colored foods, such as black sesame seeds and black beans, are rich in trace elements like iron, zinc, and selenium, which are beneficial for blood formation and circulation.

10. Protein is also an essential component of blood. It is important to consume adequate protein-rich foods, such as fish, meat, eggs, and dairy products.

If anemia is severe, prompt medical attention should be sought and treatment followed as directed by a physician.