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My mother has anemia. What diet helps increase her hemoglobin?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My 53-year-old mother was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis two years ago and has been on medication since. Despite being in her early 50s, she has not entered menopause and experiences severe bleeding during menstruation. Her hemoglobin levels are low, necessitating iron supplements.

During a recent visit, her rheumatologist advised discontinuing the arthritis medication due to potential long-term effects on bones and muscles. Although initially experiencing severe pain without the medication, she is now managing without it. We are concerned about her health.

  1. Is there a natural method, such as a healthy diet, to increase hemoglobin levels?
  2. Additionally, what iron-rich foods would you recommend?

Please help.

Thank you in advance.

Answered by Dr. Pandian. P

Education:

MS General Surgery

Professional Bio:

Dr. Pandian. P has completed MS in General Surgery from Government Thanjavur Medical College, Tamilnadu. He has 51 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diabetic foot management, all general surgery cases, and post-operative care. Currently, he is practicing at Cibi Nursing Home, Chengalpattu, Chennai.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The arthritis medication may have led to anemia (low hemoglobin levels). I suggest you increase green leafy vegetables and fruits if not diabetic. I also suggest including iron-rich foods like jaggery, dates, and lotus seeds.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to ask if you have any further questions.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Pandian. P
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 1, 2024
Reviewed At February 27, 2026

Education:

MS General Surgery

Professional Bio:

Dr. Pandian. P has completed MS in General Surgery from Government Thanjavur Medical College, Tamilnadu. He has 51 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diabetic foot management, all general surgery cases, and post-operative care. Currently, he is practicing at Cibi Nursing Home, Chengalpattu, Chennai.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MS General Surgery

Professional Bio:

Dr. Pandian. P has completed MS in General Surgery from Government Thanjavur Medical College, Tamilnadu. He has 51 years of clinical experience. He specializes in diabetic foot management, all general surgery cases, and post-operative care. Currently, he is practicing at Cibi Nursing Home, Chengalpattu, Chennai.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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