Anemia & Iron Deficiency

[debjocc]

Hi All,

I was diagnosed with Celiac in Sept. 04 through a blood test that my abdominal specialist gave me as a result of chronic diarrhea and malnutrition. After going on a gluten-free diet, my health improved drastically within 2 weeks, so I decided not to do the colonocsopy at that time. BTW, I also have diabetes type 1. When I went to see my internist recently, he was concerned that I am still anemic and iron deficient and suggested that I go back to my abdominal doc for an endoscopy and colonoscopy. OK, I have scheduled those for the end of this month.... Now my question(s): Is anemia an ongoing problem with Celiac? Do we ever recover from it? My bones or muscles seem to ache all the time and I am struggling with my new diet and resultant blood sugars. But overall, I really feel pretty good. I would like to hear what others have to say about their experiences with anemia and any of the above.

Thanks!

Deb

[gf4life]

Most people do recover from the anemia, but others need a bit of extra help. I know that when I first went gluten-free I was feeling low. I don't have an official diagnosis, so I did not have doctors testing my various nutrient levels... but I had never been able to donate blood since my iron was always low. The doctors always said I was borderline anemic.

Well after going gluten-free I started using a cast iron pan to make my scrambled eggs every morning. I would also cook my chicken in it occasionally for dinner. I was able to donate blood about 6 months into the diet! My iron was finally up to normal levels and has stayed up, even though I don't use the cast iron pan all the time anymore! The important thing with a cast iron pan is that it has to be new. It can't be an old one, or else it is most likely seasoned well with far to much gluten over the years! So that is one cheap iron booster. And it certainly can't hurt to try it. Just remember NEW pan.

Certainly have your doctor check all your nutrient levels, since there are supplements you can use, and some people might need shots at regular intervals. The gastro doctor should be able to help you in this area.

God bless,

Mariann

[kvogt]

I was anemic so I bought a 180 pill bottle of iron tablets. I took one a day til they were gone and got my blood back up to normal. I also recommend greens as they contain a lot of absorbable iron.

[jenvan]

I was not able to up my iron with pills and had an iron infusion--basically you sit with an iv in your arm, pumping you full of iron for 4 to 6 hours. This is always an option if you are not able to absorb or maintain levels with pills/foods etc. this procedure is done by a hematologist.

[shar5]

I was terribly anemic and took pills for about 6 months, and by then had begun to heal to the point where my iron levels were HIGH . So I stopped taking them and haven't needed them since. I still do, however, take a B12 injection and I found some liquid vitamins that are DYNAMITE.

Hope this helps.

Sharon

[debjocc]

thanks for your input guys! My doctor has finally presribed some iron pills, so after listening to what you had to say, here's to hoping that these pills will do the trick. I am assuming that once I get my bloodwork in good condition that maybe I won't feel as much muscle and bone pain. I am also trying to establish a good exercise routine as I have noticed that once I stretch and work out a bit, I feel less pain in my muscles (for a while anyway). Thanks for your help!

deb