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Suggest Ways To Improve Iron Levels In Blood Of A Diabetic Patient
Iam a 50yr old diabetic from the past 17 years. Iam on gaalvusmet 50/1000mg, forxiga 10mg, Crestor,cozaar, inderal. I have noticed a gradual drop in my haemoglobin level over the past couple of years. Doctor have prescribed iron tablets. There are traces of blood in my stool for which a colonoscopy was done and the result was normal. Could you please tell me the probable reason for the reduced iron levels in my blood and how to overcome this deficiency?
Tue, 4 Apr 2023
Hi,
Diabetic patients are at an increased risk of developing iron deficiency anemia due to a variety of reasons, such as chronic inflammation, poor dietary habits, and certain medications. In your case, the blood in your stool may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can contribute to low iron levels.
- To improve your iron levels, you can try the following:
- Include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as red meat, liver, spinach, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and nuts.
- Take iron supplements as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take them with vitamin C, which helps with absorption.
- Limit your intake of tea, coffee, and dairy products as they can inhibit iron absorption.
- Address any underlying gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or hemorrhoids, that may be contributing to blood loss.
- Work with your doctor to manage your diabetes effectively, as high blood sugar levels can lead to inflammation and worsen anemia.
It is important to regularly monitor your iron levels through blood tests and follow up with your doctor for any further recommendations.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Diabetic patients are at an increased risk of developing iron deficiency anemia due to a variety of reasons, such as chronic inflammation, poor dietary habits, and certain medications. In your case, the blood in your stool may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can contribute to low iron levels.
- To improve your iron levels, you can try the following:
- Include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as red meat, liver, spinach, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and nuts.
- Take iron supplements as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take them with vitamin C, which helps with absorption.
- Limit your intake of tea, coffee, and dairy products as they can inhibit iron absorption.
- Address any underlying gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or hemorrhoids, that may be contributing to blood loss.
- Work with your doctor to manage your diabetes effectively, as high blood sugar levels can lead to inflammation and worsen anemia.
It is important to regularly monitor your iron levels through blood tests and follow up with your doctor for any further recommendations.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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