The Pernicious Anemia Diet Plan consists of foods rich in vitamin B12 such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, mushrooms, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fortified foods. Vitamin B12 is a crucial vitamin for the formation of healthy red blood cells. Iron-rich foods are some of the vital parts of everyday diet in which foods rich in vitamin C should be included for the best absorption of iron.
- Early morning drink @ 6:30 am: Soaked raisin drink
- Breakfast @ 9 am: Chicken omelet with spinach
- Mid-morning meal @ 11 am: Fresh fruit bowl
- Lunch @ 1 pm: Steamed rice with fish curry and veg salad
- Evening snack @ 4 pm: Dates and figs shake
- Dinner @ 7 pm: Multigrain roti with mushroom curry
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Table of Contents
What is Pernicious Anemia?
Pernicious Anemia is an autoimmune condition caused due to a drop in the red blood cell count when the body cannot absorb vitamin B12. Pernicious anemia is caused due to the production of antibodies by the body’s immune system in the mucosal lining of the stomach and nerve cells.
Pernicious anemia is also considered one of the primary reasons for vitamin B12 deficiency. Pernicious anemia can be asymptomatic for several years. It is typically seen in age groups of 60-80 years.
When untreated, pernicious anemia can lead to severe medical issues which causes damage to the nervous system and muscle weakness. A person with pernicious anemia may face digestive issues such as nausea, bloating, and weight loss. Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet and loss of memory are a few nervous disorders seen in patients with pernicious anemia.
When a person undergoes gastric bypass surgery to treat obesity, it leads to the elimination of cells that enable vitamin B12 absorption. When a part/whole small intestine is surgically removed, it reduces the absorption of vitamin B12 that takes place in the small intestine. Intake of medications and antibiotics for infections and diabetes also affects vitamin B12 levels.
When a person is subjected to tapeworm infection, it lowers vitamin B12 levels as the tapeworms solely rely on vitamin B12 as an energy source.
What are the symptoms of Pernicious Anemia?
The symptoms of Pernicious anemia may be severe if a person is on long-term vitamin B12 deficiency. Some people assume the symptoms of pernicious anemia may be caused due to other common conditions. Here are a few symptoms associated with Pernicious anemia
- Nausea and heartburn
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Pale or yellow skin
- Short-term memory loss
- Shortness of breath during workouts
- Trouble in balancing
- Confused state of mind
- Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
- Depression
- Lack of concentration
- Irritation
- Degeneration of optic nerve that affects eyesight
What are the stages of Pernicious Anemia?
Pernicious anemia may begin with the inability of the body to absorb vitamin B12 with general fatigue, weakness, paleness of the skin, and confusion. Early stages of pernicious anemia can be managed with foods rich in vitamin B12 and supplements if required.
What are the types of Pernicious Anemia?
Pernicious anemia can be classified into 2 types
- Type 1 Pernicious anemia
- Type 2 Pernicous anemia
Type 1 Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition that affects the stomach’s ability to produce a protein that is required for the absorption of vitamin B12. The body’s immune system produces antibodies that attack the stomach’s intrinsic factor-producing cells which in turn affects the absorption of vitamin B12 resulting in deficiency. This type of Pernicious anemia is also known as Autoimmune Gastritis.
Type 2 Pernicious anemia is a genetic disorder that interferes with the transportation of vitamin B12 from the intestine to the bloodstream. This is a rare form of Pernicious anemia which is mainly caused due to mutations in the genes that carry vitamin B12 into the blood.
Pernicious Anemia Diet Plan
Pernicious Anemia Diet Plan includes foods rich in vitamin B12 such as meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy products, fortified cereals, dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. Following a balanced diet rich in vitamin B12 aids in the prevention of Pernicious anemia. Regular monitoring of vitamin B12 is required for improved health.
Fruits such as raisins, dates, figs, dried apricots, prunes, watermelon, and strawberries are good sources of iron that enhance the production of red blood cells during anemic conditions. Vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli, sweet potatoes, peas, beet greens, and string beans are the best choices for iron-rich sources that may be included in the menu.
Older people may face trouble in the absorption of vitamin B12. In such cases, physicians advise fortified foods enriched with vitamin B12 for better absorption.
Foods to avoid with Pernicious Anemia
Foods to avoid with Pernicious Anemia consist of
- Processed foods
- Sugary drinks
- Packaged foods
- High-fiber foods
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
The tannins found in coffee and tea inhibit the absorption of vitamin B12 making them unavailable for essential functions. Consumption of caffeinated drinks simultaneously with the intake of vitamin B12-rich foods may reduce its effectiveness. Foods such as grapes, corn, and sorghum contain tannins that should be avoided for better absorption of vitamin B12.
Excessive amounts of soluble fiber might bind with vitamin B12 and prevent its absorption in the small intestine. Too much calcium interferes with B12 absorption. Intake of antacids to reduce stomach acid affects the release of vitamin B12 from foods.
Alcohol consumption impairs the absorption and utilization of vitamin B12. Too much alcohol causes degradation of the stomach lining and reduces the ability of the stomach to produce the intrinsic factor required for B12 absorption.
Best Vegetables for Pernicious Anemia
The best Vegetables for Pernicious Anemia are
- Spinach
- Kale
- Green peas
- String beans
- Beetroot
- Mushroom
- Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Broccoli
The iron available in the foods can be classified into heme and non-heme iron. The non-heme iron is sourced from plant sources which can contribute to the total iron intake.
However, the non-heme iron is not completely absorbed by the body wherein, only 2-10% is only absorbed. Non-heme iron requires the assistance of vitamin C which is widely available in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, bell peppers, tomatoes, and kiwis.
Best Fruits for Pernicious Anemia
The best Fruits for Pernicious Anemia are
- Figs
- Dates
- Raisins
- Pomegranate
- Oranges
- Dried apricots
- Dried peaches
- Prunes
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Papaya
- Avocado
Incorporating a wide range of iron-rich fruits promotes the production of red blood cells enhancing the hemoglobin levels in the body. Fruits are grab-on-the-go foods that provide a good source of vitamins and minerals in addition to the iron content. Fruits like strawberries, figs, pomegranates, and figs are rich in vitamin C which one has to include in the diet when aiming to manage Pernicious anemia.
Tips for Pernicious Anemia
A few tips to consider for Pernicious Anemia are
- Consume a varied diet rich in vitamin B12 which is commonly found in red meats, eggs, poultry, oily fish, organ meats, oysters, clams, dairy products, and fortified cereals
- Add both heme and non-heme forms of iron together in the diet to raise the folate and vitamin B12 levels
- Use cast-iron pots and skillets for cooking for iron sources
- People with severe vitamin B12 deficiency may require vitamin B12 shots to boost their levels
- Make appointments with your physician for regular checkups and updates to prevent the aggravation of the symptoms and complications
- Refrain from consuming caffeine and alcohol which may interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12
- Seek medical help immediately if you feel breathlessness, increased heart rate, extreme fatigue, and heavy blood flow during regular menstrual cycles.
Foods to prevent Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition where the body produces antibodies against the body’s immune system and no foods cannot completely prevent the prevalence of Pernicious anemia. Foods can help in the management of pernicious anemia in its early stages, but severe cases need vitamin B12 shots/oral supplements to manage the condition.
FAQ’s
Is Pernicious Anemia curable?
Pernicious anemia is a lifelong autoimmune condition that cannot be cured completely but managed with diet and lifestyle changes. A balanced diet with good amounts of vitamin B12 from animal sources helps maintain the levels of vitamin B12 and avoiding certain foods such as caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods aids the better absorption of vitamin B12 from the foods.
What are the best foods to eat for Pernicious Anemia?
The best foods to eat for Pernicious Anemia are foods that are rich in vitamin B12 such as red meats (fresh), poultry, organ meats, eggs, dairy products, oily fish, clams, oysters, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, beans, soy foods, legumes, fortified cereals, and iron-rich fruits and vegetables. Remember to choose fortified breakfast cereals that are low in sugars and refined grains.
What is the natural remedy for Pernicious Anemia?
The natural remedy for Pernicious anemia is consuming foods rich in iron and beta-carotene which includes both veg and non-veg sources. Using iron pots for cooking also serves to be an iron source. Consider including vitamin B12 fortified foods to increase the intake of vitamin B12 if you are a vegetarian. Probiotic foods such as curd and buttermilk enhance the absorption of nutrients.
How can I reduce Pernicious Anemia?
Pernicious anemia can be reduced by increasing the levels of vitamin B12. Cut down the consumption of caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, energy drinks, chocolates, and chocolate ice creams for your lifetime that directly interfere with B12 absorption.
Are vitamins and calcium good for Pernicious Anemia?
Vitamin B12 levels are very much crucial for Pernicious anemia which is mainly caused due to the inability of the body to absorb vitamin B12. Rich sources of vitamin B12 are essential for the management of Pernicious anemia. The body requires adequate vitamin C for better absorption of iron from the foods. Lack of sufficient vitamin C in the diet also leads to improper absorption of vitamin B12.
Too much calcium in the foods also interferes with the absorption of vitamin B12 from the foods. it is advised to reduce the calcium intake in the foods/supplements during the treatment of Pernicious anemia.
What are the first signs of Pernicious Anemia?
The first signs of Pernicious anemia include weakness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, paleness of the skin, shortness of breath, numbness of the hands and feet, confused state of mind, loss of memory, and depression. Early stages of Pernicious anemia can be managed with diet and treatment, whereas severe stages may even lead to irreversible neurological changes.
Is Pernicious Anemia a serious condition?
Pernicious anemia can be serious when it is left unnoticed or when the treatment is delayed. Pernicious anemia also carries the risk of gastric polyps and permanent damage to the brain and nervous system. Pernicious anemia can be diagnosed with CBC, vitamin B12 levels, serum bilirubin levels, and levels of antibodies against intrinsic factors. Treatment can help with recovery which may take a few weeks to months.
How can I treat Pernicious Anemia at home?
Pernicious anemia can be treated at home by including foods rich in vitamin B12 in the diet. consuming a balanced meal rich in vitamin B12, folate, vitamin C, and iron helps to boost the levels of vitamin B12 in the body. Stepping away from caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods helps in better absorption of B12 from the foods. Consult our expert nutritionists for a personalized diet chart and menu plan to manage pernicious anemia at home with the help of diet.
How to reverse Pernicious Anemia?
Pernicious anemia cannot be completely reversed but increasing the levels of vitamin B12 can manage the symptoms of Pernicious anemia. Diet plays a vital role in the management of pernicious anemia. A well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables (for vegetarian people), nuts, seeds, red meats, chicken, eggs, and oily fish provide the necessary vitamin B12. The neurological changes caused due to severe pernicious anemia may persist even when the B12 stores are completely replenished.