Michael Greger: Iron-Deficiency Anemia: The Best Treatment and Are Vegetarians at Higher Risk?

Key Takeaways

• Reduce meat consumption to lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions (even poultry is linked to digestive issues).
• Monitor iron levels if vegetarian/vegan, especially menstruating women or those with heavy bleeding (anemia rates are higher in non-meat eaters).
• Treat iron deficiency anemia with iron-rich plant foods (legumes, leafy greens, fortified grains) paired with vitamin C-rich foods (citrus, bell peppers) to boost absorption.
• Avoid tea with meals to minimize iron absorption interference (though effect is smaller than previously thought).

Supplements & Protocols Mentioned

• Oral iron supplements: 60–120 mg of ferrous sulfate/gluconate/fumarate every other day (alternate-day dosing reduces side effects).
• Ferrous bisglycinate: Half the dose (due to higher bioavailability) with fewer side effects.
• Take iron on an empty stomach (1+ hour before meals) or with meals if nausea occurs (but absorption may decrease).
• Pair with vitamin C to enhance absorption (but may worsen GI side effects).
• IV iron for severe cases or inflammatory bowel disease (avoids gut irritation).

Notable Quotes

“Higher consumption of meat including chicken is associated with higher risks of several common disease conditions.”

Bottom Line

Prioritize plant-based iron sources and optimize absorption with vitamin C; use targeted iron supplementation (every other day) if needed, but address root causes like heavy menstrual bleeding first.

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