The seasons are changing and this is my favorite time of the year! If you know me, you know! I always say that “I don’t have a favorite season, but I love, love, LOVE when the seasons change.” As we head into Fall and pretty soon Winter — I feel the need to ask, Are you prepared?
For as far back as I can remember, pretty much all of my life, I’ve been considered anemic. That’s when one’s body doesn’t naturally produce enough red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood which can cause overall extreme tiredness, impaired cognitive functions, a weakened immune system, and lack of energy amongst other things. Iron pills aren’t my thing. (I’ve been trying different liquid iron brands but haven’t come across any that have become my go to, I’ll share when I do.)
I can’t thank my old coworker enough for putting me on to iron infusions during my short term of employment with Northwestern Hospital in 2019. The infusions have been a game changer and a God send in my life. Last week, I went for my annual iron infusion because if you know anything like I do about Chicago weather, winter means more cloudy days and reduced sunshine.
Which leads me to mention, Vitamin D. STOCK UP NOW SIS! Seriously, it’s made a difference in how I operate overall but especially once Summer Time Chi withers away. Have you ever noticed that during the summer months, life seems more vibrant, you’re full of energy and thriving? Oh, just me? Oh, okayyy. Well, it’s because we get more sun exposure during the Summer in the Midwest. Let me add, why its crucial to keep up with your Vitamin D intake, shall I? Increased bone health, an empowered immune system, chronic disease prevention, improved mood, and mental health.
An honorable mention here is Vitamin B12, which is important for overall health and works very well with Vitamin D and Iron. For instance Vitamin B12 helps to form red blood cells and helps prevent anemia. Our bodies are very cohesive. So if you lack in one area, more than likely there are several other areas that could use some assistance. Get to know your body!
Alongside Vitamin D, Iron, and Vitamin B12 supplements to your diet,
Here are some foods that can help give your mind and body a boost:
- Orange Juice or Plant Based Milk
- Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds
- Spinach or Mushroom
- Iron Rich Cereals
- Salmon
- Quinoa or Lentils
- Chickpeas
Trust me, prevention is better than cure.
I’m not a doctor, but I am passionate about my ladies getting themselves together. What good is it to have beauty and balance, you know that elevated life we spoke about? But can’t function properly because we’re not keeping up with our health? Not on my watch sis.
We all experience things that are out of our control. While we can’t control the reason things happen, we can focus on what actions are taken to support a better result. Anemia can show up due to a combination of genetics, diet, healthcare access, and a simple lack of knowledge.
If you’re melanated like I am, then you’re more vulnerable to Vitamin D Deficiency due to the body’s ability to produce it. And you’re even more susceptible to Iron Deficiency as a woman because of our friendly reminder that shows up every month like clockwork. Unless, well that’s another subject that I won’t get into. In all seriousness, I suggest that you take a trip to see your primary care provider and ask to have complete bloodwork done to find out what supplements and what amount you need for your body specifically. Stay ready so you don’t have to stay ready!
XOXO-
Amber Danaye
