should i be worried about low iron??

Question

well i havn't been getting enough protien so today i got a protien shake. How many times a week should i drink them since i don't eat meat? ALso I think im low on iron should i be worried about it? I have to get a shot and my mom said that she will just get them to do a blood test when we go..... but my mom couldn't be more relaxed about it even though im always sleepy and this morning i got up at almost 1pm!!! i don't want to sleep my life away!! I mean i get black outs when i get up im always tired and it's effecting my day plus the fact that im trying to start walking everyday

Answer 1

You should be getting some protein every day.
It sounds like you could be low on iron for sure and anemia (low iron) is common in people who do not eat meat. One thing you can do- take prenatal vitamins (even though you are not pregnant) because they are low in iron. They are in with the normal multi vitamin section (which I hope you take daily)- if you compare the iron content, it is a good amount of difference. If you take iron pills for your anemia, it can cause a lot of stomach problems- constipation, cramping, etc. Greens are also a good source of Iron. Having a slight anemia itself isn't something worrysome, so try not to be upset at your mom for seeming unalarmed.

Answer 2

First of all, unless you're an athlete, you don't need protein shakes. Even veg*ans get more protein than they really need.

I've attached a list of vegan foods that have iron. Try to mix then with foods containing vitamin C (like citrus fruits or strawberries) to up the absorption. And take a multivitamin that contains iron.

If that doesn't help, go see a doctor.

Answer 3

One good way of getting protein if you don't eat meat is to eat a starch (rice, noodles, coos coos, etc...) with a legume (lentils, beans, etc...) And that will give you the types of protein almost exactly equivalent to meat. If you think you are anemic (low on iron) You can also get liquid iron at any pharmacy and take it with a cup of juice every morning. If you still have concerns, talk with your primary care physician.