Anemia is not just simple fatigue. It can trigger a series of health crises like a domino effect: persistent exhaustion that makes daily walking a struggle; poor memory, where you forget things moments after setting them down. Anemia also accelerates the progression of diabetic complications, including diabetic kidney disease, diabetic heart disease, retinopathy, and diabetic foot, and increases mortality.
So how exactly can anemia be prevented? People with diabetes can start with the following three steps:
Eat the Right Foods, Be Your Own Nutritionist
Iron and vitamin B12 are closely linked to anemia. These nutrient‑rich foods are highly recommended:
Vegetables high in iron: spinach, rapeseed, celery, kelp, and seaweed.
Fruits that help with iron absorption: oranges, pineapples, etc., which also satisfy cravings.
Top animal‑based sources: heart, liver, and kidneys, which are excellent for iron supplementation.Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products such as beef and lean pork. Combining iron‑rich foods with B12‑rich foods greatly boosts iron absorption.
Protect the Kidneys for Long‑Term Health
Strictly control blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood lipids. Have regular checkups for urinary protein and kidney function. Follow a low‑salt diet and limit high‑potassium drinks and fruits (such as strawberries, bananas, watermelon, and grapes). Protecting the kidneys is essential for preventing anemia.
Follow Medical Advice and Use Medications Scientifically
Do not increase or decrease the dose of diabetes medications without consulting a doctor.For example, people taking metformin long term should have their vitamin B12 levels checked once a year and receive supplements under medical supervision if necessary.