What to eat quickly to replenish low red blood cell count after chemotherapy

Low red blood cells after chemotherapy can be improved by supplementing animal liver, red meat, dark vegetables, vitamin C, and iron. The decrease in red blood cells is mainly related to chemotherapy inhibiting bone marrow hematopoiesis, iron deficiency, folate deficiency, chronic blood loss, and vitamin B12 absorption disorders.

1. Animal liver:

Pig liver, chicken liver and other animal liver are rich in heme iron, with an absorption rate of up to 20% -30%, significantly better than plant-based iron sources. Every 100 grams of pig liver contains 22.6 milligrams of iron and provides high-quality protein and vitamin A. It is recommended to consume 2-3 times a week, with 50-80 grams each time. Blanching and cooking can reduce cholesterol intake. Patients with combined hyperuricemia need to control their intake.

2. Red meat:

Beef, lamb, and other red meat are high-quality sources of iron, with 3.2 milligrams of iron per 100 grams of lean beef and meat factors that promote iron absorption. Choose low-fat parts such as pork loin and leg meat, and use stewing to make them easier to digest. Daily intake should be controlled at 100-150 grams, excessive intake may increase intestinal burden. Combined with vitamin C, it can increase the absorption rate of non heme iron by more than three times.

3. Dark vegetables:

Spinach, amaranth and other dark vegetables contain non heme iron. Although the absorption rate is only 3% -8%, they are rich in folic acid and vitamin K. It is recommended to blanch them and stir fry them cold or over high heat to remove oxalic acid interference with iron absorption. Consuming 300-500 grams daily, along with citrus fruits, can promote iron conversion. People with renal insufficiency should pay attention to controlling the intake of high potassium vegetables.

4. Vitamin C:

Foods with high vitamin C content, such as fresh dates and kiwifruit, can reduce trivalent iron to more easily absorbed divalent iron. It is recommended to pair 100 grams of fruits rich in vitamin C with each meal, or drink 200 milliliters of freshly squeezed orange juice after the meal. Vitamin C supplements should not exceed 200 milligrams per day, as excessive intake may cause diarrhea. Patients undergoing radiotherapy should be aware that citrus fruits may worsen mucositis.

5. Iron supplement:

Iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate and polysaccharide iron complexes are suitable for moderate to severe anemia and should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Oral iron supplements should avoid calcium supplements, tea, and coffee. They are best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, but may irritate the gastric mucosa. Intravenous iron supplementation is suitable for patients with oral intolerance and may cause allergic reactions. After hemoglobin returns to normal, it is still necessary to continue iron supplementation for 4-6 months.

During chemotherapy, it is recommended to adopt a small and frequent meal pattern, with 5-6 meals per day to ensure nutritional intake. Choosing an iron pot for cooking can increase dietary iron content and avoid consuming it with strong tea or coffee that inhibit iron absorption. Engage in low-intensity exercises such as walking and Tai Chi to promote blood circulation, and monitor heart rate changes before and after exercise. Regularly check blood routine, if hemoglobin is below 60g/L, consider blood transfusion treatment. Maintaining sufficient sleep helps to restore bone marrow hematopoietic function, and soaking feet in warm water before bedtime improves peripheral circulation.