Sickle Cell Disease: Nutritional Considerations | oneSCDvoice
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Sickle Cell Disease: Nutritional Considerations

key information

source: NutritionMD

summary/abstract:

Patients with sickle cell disease have increased needs for calories and micronutrients (e.g., vitamins and minerals). A diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes will provide a greater proportion of essential nutrients than a typical Western diet, and appropriate supplementation (one to three times the recommended intakes for most essential nutrients) can prevent deficiency.

A high–calorie, nutrient–dense diet: The average caloric intake of sickle cell patients is typically low, especially during flare–ups of the disease. As a result, children with sickle cell disease have impaired growth and significantly lower weight compared with unaffected individuals. A careful nutritional assessment and the addition of energy supplements are needed.

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