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Keto meal plan for anemia

A keto meal plan for anemia addresses the need for increased iron intake within a ketogenic framework. It includes iron-rich, low-carb foods like leafy greens and certain meats, along with vitamin C sources for better absorption.

This plan is crafted to boost iron levels and combat anemia symptoms while adhering to keto principles. It’s about balancing keto eating with the nutritional needs required to manage anemia.

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Meal plan grocery list

  • Eggs
  • Spinach
  • Mushrooms
  • Butter
  • Chicken breast
  • Mixed greens
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Beef steak
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Almond milk
  • Peanut butter
  • Low-carb protein powder

  • Tuna
  • Avocado
  • Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
  • Lamb chops
  • Asparagus
  • Chia seeds
  • Coconut milk
  • Strawberries (first occurrence)
  • Bacon
  • Blue cheese
  • Edamame
  • Pork chops
  • Kale
  • Shrimp
  • Beef liver

  • Cucumber
  • Chicken
  • Greek yogurt
  • Almond butter
  • Grilled steak
  • Walnuts
  • Orange
  • Raspberries
  • Trout
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Almond flour
  • Blueberries
  • Lettuce
  • Caesar dressing
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Cheese slices
  • Keto-friendly bread
  • Tomato
  • Brazil nuts
  • Cream

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Meal plan overview

Introducing "Keto Meal Plan for Anemia", a specialized diet plan for those managing anemia on a ketogenic diet. This plan focuses on iron-rich, keto-friendly foods to help increase iron levels.

Each meal is carefully selected for its iron content and compatibility with the ketogenic diet, ensuring you receive the necessary nutrients to address anemia while staying in ketosis. Discover a tailored approach to keto eating that supports your health needs.

Foods to eat

  • Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines for iron and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken breast, turkey, eggs, and lean cuts of beef for heme iron.
  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard for non-heme iron and folate.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds for iron and nutrients.
  • Berries: Limited quantities of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for vitamin C.
  • Avocado: A source of healthy fats and vitamin E for absorption.
  • Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Bell peppers, broccoli, and citrus fruits to enhance iron absorption.
  • Herbs and Spices: Parsley, thyme, and rosemary for flavor and additional nutrients.
  • Protein-Rich Legumes: Edamame and tofu for plant-based protein and iron.
✅ Tip

Focus on keto-friendly iron-rich foods like spinach and shellfish, and pair them with vitamin C sources to enhance iron absorption.

Foods not to eat

  • High-Carb Foods: Minimize intake of high-carb grains and starches.
  • Processed Meats: Choose fresh, unprocessed meats over processed options.
  • Highly Processed Oils: Opt for natural fats and avoid highly processed vegetable oils.
  • Sugary Beverages: Choose water or herbal tea instead of sugary drinks.
  • Dairy with Iron Inhibitors: Consume dairy in moderation due to potential iron inhibitors.
  • Caffeine: Limit caffeine intake, especially during meals, to enhance iron absorption.
  • Calcium Supplements with Meals: If taking iron supplements, avoid calcium supplements during meals.

Main benefits

The Keto Meal Plan for Anemia is tailored to address iron-deficiency anemia through a ketogenic approach. This plan emphasizes sources of heme and non-heme iron, along with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption. By incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense options, the plan supports individuals in managing anemia and promoting overall iron balance.

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🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

Managing anemia on a keto diet requires foods rich in iron and other essential nutrients. Here are some suitable alternatives:

  • Consider Swiss chard instead of spinach for a similar nutrient profile with additional benefits.
  • Bison can be a leaner red meat option compared to beef steak.
  • Adding cocoa nibs instead of dark chocolate offers a higher concentration of nutrients.
  • Using sesame seeds instead of pumpkin seeds provides a different texture and nutrient profile.
  • For a variation in greens, consider collard greens in place of kale.

How to budget on this meal plan

Eggs, spinach, and mushrooms are key ingredients that can be bought in bulk. Butter, chicken breast, and mixed greens are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. Olive oil, lemon, and pumpkin seeds can be more cost-effective when bought in bulk. Beef steak, broccoli, and cauliflower are also more affordable in larger sizes.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

These keto snacks are rich in nutrients that can help manage anemia:

  • Beef jerky (check for low sugar content)
  • Spinach and cheese mini frittatas
  • Pork rinds
  • Liver pâté on cucumber slices
  • Dark chocolate (above 70% cocoa)
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Lamb meatballs
What should I drink on this meal plan?

Those on a keto diet addressing anemia should choose beverages rich in nutrients. Herbal teas like nettle tea can provide iron. A smoothie with spinach, almond milk, and a low-carb fruit like berries can boost iron and vitamin C intake. Bone broth offers essential minerals, and lemon water helps in iron absorption.

How to get even more nutrients?

Managing anemia on a keto diet requires careful attention since many iron-rich foods are high in carbs. Focus on iron-rich proteins like red meat and organ meats, which are also keto-friendly. Cooking in cast-iron pans can increase iron content in food, and low-carb vitamin C sources like bell peppers or spinach can enhance iron absorption.

Meal plan suggestions

Keto Meal Plan for Anemia

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms cooked in butter
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with leafy greens, bell peppers, and olive oil dressing
  • Snack: A handful of pumpkin seeds
  • Dinner: Beef steak with a side of steamed broccoli and cauliflower

Calories: 1450  Fat: 113g  Carbs: 26g  Protein: 92g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Keto smoothie with spinach, avocado, almond milk, and a scoop of low-carb protein powder
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with avocado, leafy greens, and a squeeze of lemon
  • Snack: A small portion of dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao)
  • Dinner: Lamb chops with a side of asparagus

Calories: 1350  Fat: 98g  Carbs: 25g  Protein: 97g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Chia seed pudding made with coconut milk and topped with strawberries
  • Lunch: Cobb salad with hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and bacon
  • Snack: A handful of cooked edamame
  • Dinner: Grilled pork chops with a side of sautéed spinach

Calories: 1500  Fat: 115g  Carbs: 27g  Protein: 121g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Omelette with cheese and a side of sautéed kale
  • Lunch: Shrimp and avocado salad with olive oil and lemon juice dressing
  • Snack: A few slices of beef liver pâté on cucumber slices
  • Dinner: Chicken curry with coconut milk and a side of cauliflower rice

Calories: 1550  Fat: 119g  Carbs: 25g  Protein: 108g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Full-fat Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of almond butter
  • Lunch: Salad with grilled steak, blue cheese, and walnuts, dressed with olive oil
  • Snack: A small orange or a few strawberries for vitamin C
  • Dinner: Baked trout with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts

Calories: 1400  Fat: 102g  Carbs: 36g  Protein: 91g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Keto pancakes made with almond flour, served with a side of blueberries
  • Lunch: Caesar salad with grilled chicken, no croutons, and Caesar dressing
  • Snack: A few slices of cheese
  • Dinner: Lamb chops with a side of roasted cauliflower

Calories: 1450  Fat: 108g  Carbs: 26g  Protein: 92g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Avocado toast on keto-friendly bread
  • Lunch: BLT salad with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado
  • Snack: A handful of Brazil nuts (rich in selenium)
  • Dinner: Steak with a side of creamed spinach

Calories: 1450  Fat: 119g  Carbs: 27g  Protein: 98g

These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.