If you are a carrier of Thalassaemia trait you do not have the condition, but you can pass it on to your children. There is no current research findings to that showing that trait causes any symptoms.

What should I eat if I have Thalassaemia trait?

A healthy balanced diet is recommended for people with thalassaemia trait. However, people with the trait are normally deficient in iron, folate and vitamin B12 which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, paleness and breathlessness (Karabulut et al, 2015).

How much iron do I need?

Women need more iron to replace the amount lost in blood during menstruation until menopause, women need about twice as much iron as men.
Iron deficiency occurs when your iron levels are too low, which can lead to anaemia. If you are worried you have an iron deficiency, your doctor may order some blood tests and may suggest iron supplements.

How much Vitamin C do I need?

Vitamin C increases iron absorption therefore it is important for those that have low iron levels to ensure the recommended intake is met.

 

How much Vitamin C is in food sources?

How much Vitamin B12 do I need?

Vitamin B12 is found in almost all foods of animal origin. Green plants provide none, but it can be synthesized by some algae and bacteria, although the bioavailability of such forms has been disputed. Meat, fish, milk, cheese, eggs, yeast extract and fortified breakfast cereals are all dietary sources.

 

 

How much Folate do I need?

Green leafy vegetables, brown rice, peas, oranges, bananas and fortified breakfast cereals are sources of folate.

There is conclusive evidence that supplements of 400μg/day of folic acid taken before conception and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy prevent most neural tube defects (e.g. spina bifida) in babies. It is recommended that all women of childbearing age who are planning a pregnancy take a daily supplement as it is difficult to achieve 400μg/day from diet alone.

Folic acid is the synthetic form of Folate which is used in supplements and fortification of food.
(British Nutrition Foundation)

Here are some suggestions of meals to incorporate into your diet

Dried fruit, Steak with sweet potato and broccoli, Beef spaghetti Bolognese, Spinach and chickpea curry, Oats with fruit