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From the Big Bang to today, numerous evolutions have taken place on Earth, each one providing us with new insights into life and health. Red dates, as a traditional blood-nourishing product, have been revered by people for thousands of years. However, modern science tells us that red dates do not actually nourish the blood. This fact may come as a shock to many.
Let us be clear from the start that while red dates are rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, their blood-nourishing effect is actually very limited. The iron content in red dates is not high, and most of it is non-heme iron, which has a low absorption rate. Therefore, relying on red dates to nourish the blood is not reliable.
For the sake of clarity, let us analyze with a specific story. Consider a young woman, a university student, who enjoys eating red dates to nourish her blood. Due to heavy menstrual flow, she often feels dizzy and weak, so she eats a large handful of red dates every day. However, her symptoms do not improve, and she even develops symptoms of anemia.
In this example, from a medical standpoint, the young woman’s anemic condition did not improve because of eating red dates, as the iron in red dates is difficult for the body to absorb. What we truly need are foods rich in heme iron.
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Firstly, red meat is one of the best choices for nourishing the blood. Red meats like beef and lamb contain abundant heme iron, which is highly absorbable by the body. Data shows that every 100 grams of beef contains 2.6 milligrams of iron, with an absorption rate as high as 20%.
Additionally, animal liver is also an excellent blood-nourishing food. Chicken liver and pork liver are rich in iron and vitamin A, playing important roles in blood formation. Chicken liver contains as much as 9 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, with high absorption rates.
Deep green leafy vegetables should not be overlooked. Spinach, kale, and other dark green leafy vegetables not only contain iron but also are rich in vitamin C, aiding in iron absorption. Spinach, for example, contains 2.7 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, but more importantly, it has a vitamin C content of up to 28 milligrams per 100 grams, facilitating the absorption of non-heme iron.
For instance, there is an elderly woman who prefers a vegetarian diet and often feels dizzy and weak. The doctor suggests that she increase her intake of dark green leafy vegetables, especially spinach. After a period of adjustment, the elderly woman’s anemic symptoms significantly improved.
In the case mentioned earlier, from a medical perspective, while the iron in dark green leafy vegetables is non-heme iron, the presence of vitamin C greatly improves iron absorption rates. Combined with other nutrients in leafy vegetables, it helps improve overall health conditions.
Many may wonder why we have mostly heard about the blood-nourishing properties of red dates since childhood and not these scientific dietary recommendations? This is because traditional beliefs have a deep influence, but as scientific research progresses, we gain a clearer understanding of the nutritional value of foods.
Data indicates that the prevalence of anemia in Chinese women reaches about 20%, and much of this anemia is related to an inappropriate dietary structure. Relying mainly on red dates for blood nourishment not only fails to effectively supplement iron but may also increase the risks of obesity and diabetes due to high sugar intake.
Nourishing the blood is not as simple as just eating a few red dates. A balanced dietary structure and scientific nutrition combinations are key to preventing and improving anemia. Besides the aforementioned red meats, animal livers, and dark green leafy vegetables, seafood, legumes, nuts, and other sources are also good for obtaining iron.
For example, a male office worker, who is busy at work and often orders takeout with irregular eating habits, feels exhausted due to anemia. The doctor recommends he eat more seafood and nuts, especially clams and almonds. After a period of adjustment, his anemic symptoms significantly improved.
In the case mentioned earlier, from a medical perspective, seafood like clams rich in heme iron and zinc, and nuts like almonds not only contain iron but are also rich in protein and healthy fats, contributing to overall health improvement.
So, with these rich food choices, how can we combine them for better blood nourishment? Firstly, we should have a balanced diet, ensuring that each meal includes foods rich in iron. Secondly, pay attention to the intake of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, to enhance iron absorption. Lastly, avoid excessive intake of tea and coffee, as their tannic acid content can affect iron absorption.
Research indicates that by combining a diet in a balanced manner with increased intake of iron-rich and vitamin C-rich foods, significant improvements in anemia can be achieved. For example, a study involving 400 anemic women found that through scientifically adjusting their diets, the improvement rate of anemia exceeded 80%.
In conclusion, nourishing the blood relies not only on a single food but requires a comprehensive consideration of dietary structure and nutritional combinations. Through scientific methods, we can effectively prevent and improve anemia, enhancing overall health levels.
Is anemia solely related to diet? Not entirely. Apart from diet, habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged use of certain medications can also affect iron absorption and utilization. Additionally, certain chronic diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, etc., can lead to anemia. Therefore, preventing and improving anemia requires a comprehensive consideration of lifestyle habits, disease management, and other factors.
By following a scientific diet and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, we can effectively prevent anemia and enhance overall quality of life. A scientific diet includes consuming foods rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, while a healthy lifestyle comprises moderate exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding unhealthy habits. These measures not only prevent anemia but also boost immunity, promoting overall physical health.
So, besides blood-nourishing foods, what other lifestyle habits can help prevent anemia? Let’s discuss this topic next time.
What are your thoughts on this? Feel free to share and discuss in the comments section!
Reference:
[1] Zhang Y. Correct Blood Nourishment[J]. Beneficial Reading – Seeking Medical Advice, 2023, (03): 55.
