Pretty sure I'm anemic- ugh

GiGi1221

I've been dealing with vertigo, dizzy spells and extreme sleepiness.  It finally caught up to me this past week.  I did some reading on Dr. Internet and everything seems to point towards anemia.

I'm a vegetarian, have been for over 10 years and never had  a problem, but ever since I've had the boys I spot the majority of the month so I'm thinking that may have something to do with it.  I called my ob and go in later this week for a blood draw and ekg.

Anyone have any advice on getting iron up?  I drink soymilk, but after doing some reading I think I'll switch to almond.

2shihtzus

I remember when I tested low on iron when I was pregnant, I was told that dark, green leafy vegetables (like spinach, kale etc.) were a good source of iron.

OrangeSmoke

Happened to my friend IRL as well after she had her twins.  She's also a vegetarian.  She ended up taking iron supps.

ETA:  I've always been slightly anemic as well.  But my solution (lots of meat) won't work for you.

adoubleu12

I went through some really bad anemia in high school.  I ended up having to be put on steroids because I was so weak.  My Dr. made me take an iron supplement daily.  It really helped!  I still have problems with anemia.  I think my real problem is remembering to take vitamins every day!!!

bunny731

Beans, raisins, multivitamin with juice. I believe that milk detracts from iron absorption, and that iron should be coupled with Vitamin C for max benefits. 

Do you have allergies, sinus issues, use an inhaler? These could also be signs of sinus infection, allergy/inhaler issues coupled with two young children keeping you busy. Just a thought if the bloodwork comes back normal.

AlishaMay

I second the dark leafy greens as a good source of Iron, as are soy products, lentils, black beans, garbanzo beans...  I'm sure world's healthiest foods would have some good info.

There's also been some good research lately about the importance of vitamin D - especially for us sun challenged mid-westerners.  My mom was having some various health problems (some very similar to what you mentioned) and before they started the litany of invasive tests they did some blood work, which included checking her vitamin D level.  It turns out that her levels were really low.  They started by having her take vitamin D supplements, and almost all of her issues resolved.  Since they are checking your blood work, it may be worth asking them to check this level as well.

Good luck - feel better!

clarku2000

AlishaMay:

I second the dark leafy greens as a good source of Iron, as are soy products, lentils, black beans, garbanzo beans...  I'm sure world's healthiest foods would have some good info.

There's also been some good research lately about the importance of vitamin D - especially for us sun challenged mid-westerners.  My mom was having some various health problems (some very similar to what you mentioned) and before they started the litany of invasive tests they did some blood work, which included checking her vitamin D level.  It turns out that her levels were really low.  They started by having her take vitamin D supplements, and almost all of her issues resolved.  Since they are checking your blood work, it may be worth asking them to check this level as well.

Good luck - feel better!

Both my sisters had their vitamin D levels checked and they were both low.  They were put on supplements and they feel 100% better.

leviandlandensmom

Take a really good multivitamin and add in a non-constipating iron supplement.

I'd go to a naturopath and have some thorough bloodwork done that checks more than just your hematocrit.

PaprikaBug

Ditto on the bloodwork from a naturopath...

I found out I was anemic when I was around 18 weeks... I was already incorporating tons of dark leafy greens and other iron-rich foods in my diet, so I had to take something. I'm not vegetarian, but I don't really eat red meat. I started taking Floradix(it was at our natural food co-op). It was liquid, so it didn't make me constipated(like some iron supplements do), and it REALLY helped almost immediately. Some people don't like the taste, but you can easily mix it with juice or in a smoothie.

GiGi1221

Thanks ladies- I will check in to all of your suggestions.  I take vit d but maybe I need more...

leogrl

You could also try cooking in an cast iron skillet/pot which will add iron to what you are cooking

gumiberg

the problem with leafy greens is that they are also high in fiber, which means you dont absorb all the iron.

i recommend Solgar Gentle Iron for supplementation.   Unlike other pills, these wont leave you constipated or gassy.

MamaCat21

My doctor told me to take Slow Fe (it's a bit pricey, but if you buy on amazon it's cheaper than in stores).