Anaemia and nutritional deficiencies
A deficiency is corrected first by identifying its cause, which is the doctor’s role. Dietetic work then follows: improving intake and, above all, absorption — often more decisive than quantity.
Gabriela Ferent — Qualified dietitian · Affiliated with the CNS
Absorption, more than the amount eaten
Blood tests ordered by your doctor
Improving iron absorption
Plant iron is poorly absorbed, but vitamin C at the same meal multiplies absorption, while tea, coffee and calcium markedly reduce it. Shifting those drinks by an hour often changes more than the food list does.
- Pairing plant iron with vitamin C at the same meal
- Shifting tea, coffee and calcium away from iron-rich meals
- B12 vigilance on a vegan diet
- Re-evaluating lab results with your doctor
What the first consultation evaluates
The assessment rests on the tests ordered by your doctor (blood count, ferritin, vitamin B12, folate as relevant), on your actual intake and on contributing factors: heavy periods, poorly balanced vegetarian eating, digestive disorders, digestive surgery.
- Pairing iron with vitamin C in the same meal
- Shifting tea and coffee away from meals
- Spreading haem and non-haem iron sources
Medical coordination and limits
Anaemia must be investigated medically: diet alone does not correct an established deficiency and never replaces prescribed supplementation or the search for an underlying cause. The practice works on intake and absorption, alongside your doctor’s lab monitoring.
What belongs to your physician
Diagnosis, tests and medical treatment remain your doctor's responsibility. Dietetic support adapts to them and, with your agreement, a report is sent to your doctor.
Iron correction pathway
- 1
Biological confirmation workup
- 2
Absorption pairing optimization
- 3
3-6 month check-up with doctor
Frequently asked questions about anaemia and deficiencies
Moderately: their iron is poorly bioavailable and oxalates limit absorption. Pulses and seeds are often more effective.
Ready to start your care pathway?
Book an appointment with Gabriela Ferent — three practices in Luxembourg, consultations with possible CNS coverage on prescription, or privately.
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