What foods should sickle cell patients eat?
If food is taken in moderation and with a generally balanced selection of foods, I cannot think of many foodstuffs that would be hazardous to somebody with sickle cell disease. Possible harm from excess iron if somebody already has iron overload from multiple transfusions – so there is generally no need for iron supplements in sickle cell disease. Possible harm from too much diuretic effect if excess caffeine or alcohol is taken, because the fluid lost will make dehydration more likely and more tendency for red blood cells to sickle. Be cautious with medications that tend to dehydrate the body, lower the oxygenation or slow the circulation or enhance clotting. There is a cookbook that is available, we do not endorse it but it may be of help: Back to Our Roots : Cooking for Control of Sickle Cell Anemia and Cancer Prevention by Dawud Ujamaa Price: $18.95 Paperback 2nd Rev edition (January 1995) Al Mai Dah Pubns; ISBN: 1884938019 This can be ordered from Amazon.com key word search – sick
