As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help your child thrive, especially when they’re dealing with a medical condition like a blood disorder. Whether it’s anemia, sickle cell disease, thalassemia or another blood disorder, nutrition is important in how your child feels and how they manage their condition.
The right foods can make a big difference, helping your child stay strong, energized and ready to take on the day. But knowing exactly what to feed your child and what to avoid can be confusing.
With expert advice from Santosh Hanmod, MD, a pediatric hematologist-oncologist with Banner Children’s, we share six nutritional tips to help you support your child’s health in the best way possible.
1. Eat well for healthy blood
A well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining your child’s overall physical and mental health.
“Food sources rich in key nutrients like iron, folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin C are especially important for children with blood disorders,” Dr. Hanmod said. “These nutrients collectively support the healthy production of blood cells, which help manage symptoms and prevent complications.”
Focus on the following:
Iron
Iron helps produce hemoglobin, which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. Children with anemia due to a deficiency of iron often need iron-rich foods, while those with thalassemia and some sickle cell cases may need to limit iron to prevent overload.
Foods rich in iron: Found in animal sources (heme iron) like meat, chicken and fish or plant-based sources (non-heme iron) like lentils, beans, spinach and broccoli.
Folate (B9)
This vitamin helps produce red and white blood cells and aids DNA synthesis.
Foods rich in folate: Green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, beans, peas and avocado. Fortified cereals are another easy way to sneak in extra folate.
Vitamin B12
B12 vitamins are needed to produce healthy red blood cells and maintain nerve function.
Foods rich in B12: Found in animal products like meat, fish, eggs and dairy.
Vitamin C
This vitamin boosts the absorption of non-heme iron and supports immune health.
Foods rich in vitamin C: Include citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), berries, kiwi, tomatoes and broccoli.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting and preventing bleeding disorders.
Foods rich in vitamin K: Green leafy vegetables, Brussels sprouts, parsley and soybean oil.
Vitamin E
Acts as an antioxidant to protect blood cells from damage.
Foods rich in vitamin E: Nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds (sunflower, flaxseed), spinach, olives and avocado.
Protein
Protein helps with tissue repair and growth, including the production of blood cells and hemoglobin.
Foods rich in protein: Meat, chicken, fish, eggs, legumes and dairy.
Other micronutrients that are helpful are zinc, calcium, copper and selenium.
2. Be cautious with supplements
Certain combinations and supplements can affect treatment outcomes for children with blood disorders.
- Pairing iron-rich foods with calcium-rich foods: “Calcium can affect the absorption of non-heme iron from plant sources,” Dr. Hanmod said. “This can reduce the effectiveness of iron-rich meals in treating anemia.” Instead, wait a couple of hours before giving your child a glass of milk after a meal. This will help ensure they get the most out of their iron-rich foods.
- Iron overload: Children with thalassemia, especially those receiving regular blood transfusions, are at risk for iron overload. Iron supplements or iron-rich foods can worsen this buildup, leading to complications like heart and liver damage. Limit iron-rich foods to prevent iron overload unless your child’s health care provider tells you otherwise.
- Vitamin C: While it boosts iron absorption in children with anemia, too much vitamin C can increase iron absorption in children with thalassemia, leading to iron overload.
Avoid excessive intake of foods with vitamin C to prevent iron overload unless your child’s health care provider tells you otherwise. - Herbal supplements: Some herbal supplements, like garlic or ginkgo, may interfere with blood clotting or anticoagulant medications.
3. Be mindful of dietary habits
“Certain dietary habits should be avoided to prevent worsening symptoms, complications and nutrient imbalances,” Dr. Hanmod said.
Examples include:
- Drinking too much coffee or tea: These beverages contain tannins and polyphenols, which can prevent iron absorption. Avoid giving these beverages to your child, especially with meals.
- Overdoing processed foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars and salt and low in essential nutrients. Try to limit sugary drinks, chips and processed snacks. Opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruit, whole grain crackers or nuts.
- Skipping meals: Skipping meals can leave your child feeling tired and unfocused. Regular meals help maintain energy levels and support overall health. Encourage your child to eat small, balanced meals throughout the day, even if they don’t feel very hungry.
4. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent complications related to blood disorders, especially in children with sickle cell disease and polycythemia (an overproduction of red blood cells).
“Dehydration can lead to blood thickening and the sickling of red blood cells,” Dr. Hanmod said. Encourage your child to drink water regularly. Fun water bottles and adding fruit to their water can make it more appealing.
5. Work with a dietitian
You don’t have to figure this out on your own. A registered dietitian who understands pediatric blood disorders can help you create a meal plan that meets your child’s specific needs and preferences.
Ask your child’s health care provider for a referral to a dietitian who can guide you through meal planning and suggest foods that support your child’s health. They can also help if your child is a picky eater or has specific dietary restrictions.
6. Encourage a healthy lifestyle
In addition to diet, several lifestyle changes can support your child’s long-term health:
- Get regular physical activity. Regular exercise can help build strong muscles and help prevent joint problems. Talk to your child’s provider about what exercises they can do safely and which to avoid.
- Ensure your child gets enough sleep to support their body’s recovery and blood production.
- Manage stress by practicing activities like mindfulness and deep breathing.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Prevent infections. Get regular well-checks and vaccinations to lower your child’s risk.
- Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
Takeaway
Your child’s diet plays an important role in managing their blood disorder. Remember, every child’s needs are different. Work with your child’s health care team or a Banner Health specialist to tailor their diet to their specific condition.
With the proper nutrition and healthy habits, you can help your child feel stronger, more energetic and better able to face the challenges of their blood disorders.
