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Journalism of Courage
Shalini Passi has been basking in her new-found fame since the release of Netflix’s Fabulous Lives Vs Bollywood Wives. With her eclectic fashion choices and love for all things art and high fashion, the socialite has been grabbing eyeballs for her quirky way of living. In a recent conversation with indianexpress.com, Passi revealed that as a thalassemia minor who also battles anaemia, she sticks to a largely raw fruit and vegetable diet, and avoids dependence on iron supplements. How can such a diet help tackle her medical condition?
Umang Malhotra, clinical dietitian at Fitelo, shared that thalassemia minor, also known as beta-thalassemia, is a blood disorder affecting haemoglobin production, and thus iron management and diet play crucial roles in maintaining optimal health. Thalassemia patients need to pay careful attention to iron intake, as excess iron can build up in the body due to frequent blood transfusions and increased intestinal absorption. Over time, this iron overload can damage organs, including the heart, liver, and endocrine glands, leading to complications.
Malhotra explained that iron in food exists in two forms: heme and non-heme. Heme iron, found in animal products like meat, poultry, and fish, is readily absorbed by the body whereas non-heme iron, present in plant-based foods, is less readily absorbed but carries a lower risk of contributing to iron overload in thalassemia patients.
“Since people with thalassemia are prone to iron buildup, focusing on non-heme iron sources in a plant-based or raw vegetable diet can help manage iron levels more safely. Raw vegetables are rich in nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Raw vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli provide non-heme iron, which is absorbed at a slower rate than heme iron, making it safer for those prone to iron overload,” he said.
According to him, Vitamin C is crucial in enhancing non-heme iron absorption, and hence, raw fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, like bell peppers, tomatoes, and citrus fruits, can help improve iron absorption for anaemic patients. “A raw vegetable diet is packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C, which protect red blood cells from oxidative damage, supporting overall cellular health. Leafy greens and raw vegetables are high in folate, a nutrient vital for red blood cell production,” he said.
Deepalakshmi, registered dietitian at The Cleft and Craniofacial Centre and Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, suggested green leafy vegetables like spinach that are high in folate and iron, along with cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage can be consumed. Nuts and seeds like pumpkin or chia can also be a regular part of your diet.
Malhotra shared that raw diets can sometimes lack adequate amounts of protein, vitamin B12, and calcium, which are essential for anaemia management and overall health. “B12, in particular, is only found in animal products and is essential for red blood cell formation. Even though raw foods are generally lower in calories, people should be mindful of their caloric intake to avoid weight loss, which may not be beneficial for those managing chronic conditions,” he said.
Deepalakshmi concurred, and said that a completely raw diet may be low in calories and protein, which could lead to fatigue, especially in those with thalassemia minor who might already experience low energy levels. Including grains, legumes, and cooked vegetables maximize nutrient bioavailability and ensure a balanced meal with sufficient calories and protein.
