Although there is no special diet for sickle cell disease, it is important for people with the condition to eat a healthy diet and drink enough fluids to maintain their overall health.
Sometimes the things you eat—or don't eat—directly affect your sickle cell disease. A healthy diet is one that contains the right amount of nutrients to keep your body working at its best. Combined with regular exercise, your diet can help you have more energy and feel better throughout the day.
Exercise
Whether or not someone has sickle cell disease, regular exercise promotes a healthy body and mind. If you have sickle cell pain, however, it is best to avoid exercise that puts a lot of demand on your body. When you exercise, you will also breathe faster to meet your body's need for more oxygen.
The best type and amount of physical exercise is different for each person, but, in general, it is wise to do some moderate exercise three or four times a week. Most people learn to set their own limits based on experience.
Talk to your health-care team before you start a new exercise program, or if you plan to do strenuous exercise or sports. They can give you advice about how to start safely and pace yourself. Over time, you can gradually increase the time and effort you spend at your chose activity, but remember also to take rest breaks and drink plenty of water.
Importance of fluids
Often people think that a diet is just about the food you eat. But, in fact, people with sickle cell disease also need to pay attention to what they drink.
When you have sickle cell disease, you need to take care not to become dehydrated (low on fluids). Dehydration can cause your blood cells to stick together and block blood vessels. To prevent this, drink at least eight cups of water each day (about 2 liters or 64 oz.) and avoid sugary drinks and drinks with caffeine.
If you notice that certain parts of your diet affect your sickle cell disease, talk to your health-care team about getting the right balance of nutrients just for you.