Foods to eat to manage hemophilia
Hemophilia is a condition wherein the blood fails to clot quickly due to a lack of blood-clotting proteins. This means that those with this condition bleed for longer after sustaining an injury. In some cases, they may even bleed into their muscles and joints. While eating certain foods might not completely cure hemophilia, the right food habits will help manage the illness. Here are some foods to eat to manage hemophilia.
Foods to eat
Iron-rich foods like spinach
Since hemophilia patients tend to lose more blood than healthier individuals, it is important for them to add iron-rich foods to their meals. Leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli are a great source of iron. Organ meats and poultry are calorie-dense and among the rich sources of iron. However, just consuming iron-rich foods alone is not sufficient. It is also important to increase one’s vitamin C intake, as that helps in iron absorption.
Low-fat foods like skimmed milk
It is important to maintain a healthy weight for those with hemophilia, which means that they need to eat easily digestible and low-fat food items. Hemophilia patients can opt for skimmed milk over regular milk to ensure that they get the right amount of calcium without the unnecessary fats. That said, the type of fat found in nuts and seeds can help boost one’s immune system. They also help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It is essential to talk to a certified dietician before making any changes in one’s food regimen.
Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
Eating whole grains like oats, brown rice, whole wheat, and bran helps reduce cholesterol and maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Whole grains are rich in fiber and increase one’s satiety level. Fruits and vegetables, like whole grains, are rich in fiber. They are excellent for the gut and improve digestive health. Good gut health can help one fight diseases.
Apart from making changes in lifestyle and eating habits, those with this condition have to take certain medications, like AFSTYLA®, to manage hemophilia. It is prescribed for managing factor VIII deficiency or classic hemophilia. It can be used for both adults and children to help manage and control bleeding episodes. It is also used as routine prophylaxis, which helps reduce and manage these bleedings. With regular use, the risk of joint damage due to excessive bleeding can be reduced.
