Iron Deficiency Anemia

Starting off this season of fantastic guests is Kim McCormick. Kim is a 35+ year champion Type 1 Diabetic who is passionate, compelling and motivational with a mission of helping others get over living in Diabetes Denial. Her goal is to help move that "mental block" and help others connect with how their entire body is being impacted by their decisions and taking the very next steps to develop habits that lead to better results. What you'll find in this episode is the similarities between living with Iron Deficiency Anemia and living with Diabetes. Denial and depression can be a part of it. They are not your identity and you are not alone. Listen as Kim provides support in a safe and wonderful community for those living with and managing diabetes.   Show Notes: [2:25] - Welcome to the show, Kim! Kim shares her background and who she serves. [3:37] - Many people who live with diabetes have not accepted that it's lifelong. [4:41] - Kim is a 35+ year Type 1 Diabetic. [5:29] - You have to have a certain mindset to live with this chronic illness. [6:34] - Kim explains what happens in your body when you have diabetes. [7:58] - Similar to Iron Deficiency Anemia, there are signs of denial. [9:11] - Even when people have the right tools, many do not implement them. [10:28] - Learning the things you can do that you thought you would never be able to do is powerful and profound. [11:47] - You learn to manage the condition. Don't let the condition manage you. [12:50] - Diabetes literally impacts everything. [13:44] - Denial does not make it go away. [15:01] - Living with diabetes is not punishment, it's preservation. [16:31] - Why is it common for people to live in diabetes denial? [18:52] - Keep your mind focused on the destination of better health. [20:07] - Many people suffer in silence as a result of differences in experiences. [22:10] - Accountability plays a big role. [23:49] - You need to have a support group. [25:22] - Kim describes her support group, what it consists of, and how everyone supports each other in this community. [28:05] - Don't give up on yourself and mentally throw in the towel. [29:19] - Diabetes is a condition you live with, not your identity. [30:14] - You cannot conquer what you will not confront.   Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast Resources: Ready for a personalized plan that works for your beautiful body and a supportive community that "gets you" and knows what you're going through? Join The Nourish Way! The ONLY holistic health, nutrition, and lifestyle community exclusively for women diagnosed with Iron Deficiency Anemia. Get on the waitlist and be first in line when doors open! Our Deeper Purpose:We bring together women with Iron Deficiency Anemia who want to boost their energy naturally and maintain it, with a holistic health, nutrition, and lifestyle approach, and gain support on their healing journey, so they can live their amazing lives, with more energy, having way more fun! Ready to start living your amazing life with more energy, passion, and joy?  Join The Nourish Way waitlist.  (link here: https://pages.asiasharifclark.com/thenourishwaywaitlist/)   Kim McCormick's Resources: Get access to Kim's curated Top 10 Tips to Help Diabetes Denial: http://www.nomorediabetesdenial.com/ Free Facebook Group: We LEAP 4 Life  

So many women with Iron Deficiency Anemia have accepted that they have to suffer forever, that this is just how things are going to be now. But I'm here to tell you that that isn't true. Is recovery possible? Let's dive in with a story about my client and friend, Marva. In this episode, I share Marva's “before and after” story. Marva is a mom who didn't have enough energy to spend time with her daughter. She was a social worker whose job was greatly impacted by her lack of energy. And she had big dreams that IDA was hindering her from working towards. Fast forward to today, Marva is living her dreams with more energy than she ever thought possible. Listen on to find out what she wanted and how, with the support of a coach and community, experienced the changes she needed on her healing journey.   Show Notes: [1:40] - This is a story about one of Asia's favorite clients and her journey. [2:19] - Marva is a mom and was a social worker. IDA impacted her ability to give her all and everyday was a struggle. [3:42] - IDA was impacting her ability to spend quality time with her family. She wasn't able to do the things she wanted to do. She knew she was ready for a change. [4:24] - Marva knew three things: she wanted a coach, she wanted nutrition to be a major part of her recovery, and she wanted lifestyle support. [6:38] - Watching women go from no energy to tons of energy is one of Asia's greatest joys. [7:20] - In addition to physical symptoms, IDA comes with a lot of emotions, particularly guilt and shame. [8:57] - Guilt and shame can become very overwhelming and debilitating. [9:42] - Energy is just the beginning.  [10:34] - After recovery, Marva has more energy than she ever thought possible.   Want to become a founding member of The Nourish Way Community? Simply click the link to DM me on Instagram @asharifclark and say "yes." I'll share the link to join and answer any questions. Our deeper purpose: We're bringing together an amazing group of women struggling with Iron Deficiency Anemia who want to boost their energy with our holistic health, nutrition, and lifestyle approach, and gain support, so they can stop dragging and start living with more energy, passion, and joy. Can't wait to support you!

It is so good to be back for episode 16 and I am so glad you are here. I have so much to share and cannot wait to connect with you. We're going to kick off this new season of Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast with 3 reasons you need a personalized health and nutrition plan. Let's be sure to put the emphasis on personalized. Grab something to write on because these tips will change so much for you. Thank you for being a part of the IDA Podcast and The Nourish Way Community. Be sure to listen all the way to the end to learn all about upcoming programs and free resources to connect you with other women like you, create a personalized plan, and to help you find and maintain your energy on your unique journey.   Show Notes: [2:10] - As Asia was talking to other women, she saw the need for personalized health and nutrition plans. [3:30] - The first reason to have a personalized health and nutrition plan is that you focus on your unique needs. [4:42] - You focus on your own unique journey and you don't compare it to the journey of others. [5:30] - The third reason is to focus on your own recovery rather than thinking about it as something you'll suffer forever. It is possible to recover. [6:31] - Asia shares questions to ask yourself in designing your plan. [7:20] - The personalized health and nutrition plans connect you with your support and most importantly with yourself. Asia shares what you receive. [9:27] - Get ready to get on the waitlist on Monday, May 23rd for the new updated version of The Nourish Way. [10:23] - The deeper purpose of The Nourish Way is to bring women together to boost energy naturally, maintain it, and to gain the support you need.   You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Click here to Get Your Free Personalized Health + Nutrition Plan Click here to Get On the Waitlist! The Nourish Way Community OPENS May 23rd!

I started journaling years ago and as I continued the habit, I started noticing patterns. That's when it hit me that journaling can be extremely powerful. In today's episode, I share my journaling experience and why I call it “data with a story.”   But where do you start? If you've never journalled before, that's okay! In this episode, I give you three main topics to write about, even if they are just jotting down notes. The thing to remember about journaling is that every physical feeling and emotion is important. Nothing is too small to write about and when used the right way, you'll notice patterns like I did. Empower yourself to find these patterns and continue on your journey towards more passion, energy, and joy.   Show Notes: [1:31] - Journaling can have a powerful impact on your healing journey. Asia calls it “data with a story.” [1:58] - Asia started journaling about feelings, food, and being grateful years ago. This is when she started noticing patterns. [2:40] - The journaling was not only giving Asia useful data, it was telling a story about her journey. [3:03] - The first thing Asia suggests journaling about is writing down physical sensations. [3:26] - The second thing is to write down treatments and food, especially new foods. [3:48] - Asia's third journaling prompt is to write down how you feel. This is the most important thing. Always consider your emotions. [4:53] - Asia is working on an online experience called The Nourish Way 2.0. As she's writing, she is noticing how journaling is prominent throughout. [5:57] - Journaling is a powerful tool for your personal self but is also empowering when shared with doctors. [6:38] - Save the date, June 15th, for the exciting The Nourish Way. It is a personalized health, nutrition, and lifestyle experience to help you boost your energy naturally and start living with more passion, energy, and joy. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast Facebook Group

Sometimes it is hard to advocate for yourself when you don't have all the information you need. That is the story of a wonderful woman I spoke with who shared her experience with me. In today's episode, I share her story and the blame and pressure she placed on herself.   Ultimately, you deserve kindness and grace. That includes from yourself as well. If you ever find that you are blaming yourself, in this episode I provide three phrases to hold on to because you have the right to be the patient.   Show Notes: [1:30] - Asia had a recent conversation with a woman named Kim who had a lot of pressure put on her and she blamed herself for what she didn't know. [2:08] - Leaving her doctor's appointment after being diagnosed with Anemia, Kim didn't know that she had a prescription supplement sent to an online portal and it sat there for months. [2:33] - Don't put pressure on yourself to be the expert. It was Kim's doctor's responsibility to communicate. [3:42] - Don't blame yourself for anything, especially for things you just didn't know. [4:14] - Asia gives phrases to say to yourself when you find yourself in that position: “I have the right to be the patient. I deserve kindness and grace. I give it to others, here I am giving it to me.” [5:15] - Instead of saying that you will give yourself the right in the future, Asia encourages you to say that you are giving to yourself now. [6:00] - The Nourish Way is a new lifestyle experience to help you boost your energy naturally and maintain it. [6:29] - The Nourish Way is personalized support coming in June. Asia dives deeper into advocating for yourself. [7:25] - You are worth the kindness and grace you can give yourself. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast Facebook Group

Welcome to Part 2 of the Ripple Effect of Your Energy! We started this topic last week and in today's episode, we talk more about why moving from no energy to full of energy will completely change your life.   I am passionate about helping women end pain and suffering around Iron Deficiency Anemia. I lived for so many years as the Exhausted Anemic. But now that I know what it is like to be the Energized Adventurer, I just have to share. Your energy is worth so much more than you think. Listen on to find out how your family, work, and community are impacted by your lack of energy and what increasing that energy can do to change your life.   Show Notes: [1:31] - What Asia is deeply passionate about is helping women to end pain and suffering around Iron Deficiency Anemia. [1:56] - Why is more energy important? For more quality time with your family, more creativity at work, and to do the things you love to do. [2:38] - While the Exhausted Anemic struggles to get through the day, the Energized Adventurer knows that energy and vitality allow her to accomplish more. [3:10] - When you don't move from Exhausted Anemic to Energized Adventurer, your family suffers. It hurts those relationships and time spent with them. [3:45] - Work suffers. Instead of impacting your industry, you are just trying to get through the day. [4:05] - All the things you want to give to, whether it through time or volunteering, will never feel your impact. [4:34] - It is immeasurable to know that energy will impact your relationships, work, and community. [5:33] - If you are ready to go from exhausted to energized, join Asia's free IDA Podcast Facebook Group. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast Facebook Group

In several episodes now, I've mentioned the need for more energy. I promise you will find that energy, but what can that energy affect? More than you realize! It isn't just about the quality of your own life because your energy has an impactful ripple effect.    In today's episode we discuss three of the ripple effects your energy will have on others and the world at large. I have gone from “The Exhausted Anemic,” to “The Energized Adventurer,” and I know you can, too. Join me for support, connection, and community as we move through this journey together.   Show Notes: [1:33] - Asia has three core values: energy, vitality, and joy. Those are three of her top values as they apply to living her life. [2:21] - The Exhausted Anemic struggles getting through the day while The Energized Adventurer knows that energy and vitality allow her to accomplish more than she ever thought possible. [3:14] - Think a moment about a small stone dropped into a pond. That is you and your energy. [3:44] - The first ripple effect is you building deeper relationships with your family. Imagine the impact your energy has on them. [4:07] - The second ripple effect is you at work. Your energy impacts your industry and your impact on the community your work has. [4:23] - The third ripple is more energy for causes and community you love. What can you do with more energy? [5:01] - The biggest impact is that it is not just about you. You become this beacon of hope, light, and inspiration. [5:30] - Asia shares the story of when she was The Exhausted Anemic. She could only ever think about herself and her energy. [6:19] - As Asia began to transform into The Energized Adventurer, she had the idea of this podcast. Her energy has rippled into a cause she is passionate about. [7:02] - Join the Iron Deficiency Anemia Facebook Group to see that you are not alone. [7:32] - Having more energy, vitality, and joy will allow you to accomplish more than you ever thought possible. Join for support, connection, and community. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast Facebook Group

Now that we know how to advocate for ourselves in a doctor's appointment, we need to take a step back and know how to trust our instincts. That's a tricky one because it feels like we're going against what we've been taught. But ultimately as women, we become numb to our pain because we don't trust our instincts enough to advocate for ourselves. And that's a problem.   In today's episode, I give you three actionable steps to take and to continue doing as you work on trusting your instincts. This is a work in progress, but together, we can achieve this. Remember that you are the expert on you and your feelings deserve to be honored.   Show Notes: [1:23] - Asia reminds us of a story shared in the previous episode of a 45 year old college professor who felt that her excessive bleeding wasn't taken seriously. [1:57] - A lot of women are becoming numb to our pain because we stop talking about it. It isn't being acknowledged. [2:54] - The previously mentioned college professor didn't trust her instincts and today's focus is on that. [3:31] - You are the expert on you. Doctors are experts, but you know yourself better. [4:05] - Step 1 in trusting your instincts is to have a journal handy and to write down how you feel. When you have a feeling of discomfort or pain, write it down. [4:49] - Step 2 is to never dismiss step 1. Honor your feelings and know that nothing is silly and nothing is just in your head. [6:01] - Step 3 is to share it with your doctors and don't stop. This is where the numbing comes in. If you have felt that you've shared with your doctors and it wasn't acknowledged, Asia shares that this is where women normally stop and become numb. [6:34] - If you share it with the right doctors, you will save yourself years of pain and suffering. [6:57] - Trust your instincts enough to know if you need to change and find a different doctor. [8:42] - Trusting your instincts is a work in progress. It is something that we will work on together and remind ourselves that we need to speak up about these important things. Honor your feelings. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website

Have you ever had a doctor's appointment that left you feeling defeated, guilty, or even angry? Sometimes our fears are being dismissed and there's a lot you can do to make sure you are heard and that your concerns are being taken seriously.   In today's episode, I offer three actionable steps to take before and during a doctor's appointment. Remember, an average doctor's appointment is only 20 minutes long with the doctor so you need to take advantage of every minute with them. Ultimately, you deserve to be heard and your concerns deserve to be taken seriously. I can help you take the steps to advocate for yourself during these important appointments. Let's go. Show Notes: [1:34] - This episode is all about how to advocate for yourself when going to a doctor's appointment. Asia shares the story of a professor who was struggling with communicating with her doctor. [2:19] - The woman in the story felt that her fears were being dismissed and it left her feeling unheard and misunderstood. [3:06] - When we feel like our fears are being dismissed and our concerns are not being heard, it leaves us feeling guilty, defeated, and angry. [3:55] - Asia gives three steps to take to advocate for yourself during a doctor's appointment to make the most of the time you have with him or her. [4:42] - The first step takes place prior to the appointment and that is to keep a journal. [5:42] - When writing in your journal, Asia advises to be specific about how you feel using the sentence “I feel ___ when I take or use ___.” [6:51] - The second step is to take the journal with you to the appointment. It will help with focus and support. [7:12] - The third step is to start the appointment with your concerns from your journal. Asia walks us through this. [8:22] - If you ever feel that it is rude to just start right in with your concerns, Asia advises to put that aside. You are not rude to go all in. [9:03] - If you have a doctor who is not very receptive and your concerns are not being heard, confirm to the doctor that they are not hearing you and repeat your specific concern. [10:09] - There is a difference between a doctor who is being dismissive and a doctor who is being distracted. Repeat yourself and be specific. [11:32] - When you go in with these three steps, you are advocating for yourself. Have a sense of urgency when you begin a doctor's appointment by starting with your concerns. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally

I am honored to share, connect, and reflect with you on your journey. I truly am and I am thrilled to get to share with you in Episode 9 today, the fifth stage in my five step process: The Power of Reflecting. In the previous episode, we discussed the power of listening to your body and I hope that through the journaling exercises I provided in that episode that you are feeling empowered and confident and more in tune with your unique body.   Now that you've listened to your body, it is time to reflect. This is not always an easy step, but it is the most powerful in not only getting things under control, but also in maintaining that control. Reflecting allows you to look back so you are not constantly reinventing the wheel. And reflecting gives you the power and the confidence to do more of what is working and less of what is not.   Show Notes: [1:52] - Each stage plays a key role on this journey: Discovering, Exploring, Nourishing, Listening to Your Body, and now stage five is all about reflecting. [2:45] - What reflecting gives you is the confidence to look inside, monitor results, and make changes if necessary. [3:27] - All five stages in Asia's process are all interconnected. Throughout the entire process, you are learning so much about yourself and your body. [3:50] - Asia admits it is hard to reflect. It is difficult to take a step back. [5:07] - One question to ask yourself when reflecting is: What adjustments have I made? [5:53] - The next question to consider is: What foods are working for me? You don't have to recreate the wheel. If these foods are working for you, keep them on rotation. [6:15] - Another question Asia suggests reflecting on is: What foods aren't working for me? This is just as powerful. [6:35] - And the final reflection question is: How am I feeling now? Compare how you felt at the beginning of this process and how you feel now. What do you notice? [7:42] - Asia encourages you to reach her through her website, through email, or on Facebook. Send her a note to let her know how you're feeling and do more of what is working and less of what is not. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website

Has this ever happened to you? Imagine, a friend tells you something that is working for them and you excitedly try it. Then you discover that it is not working for you but you keep doing it anyway. Remember, you have your own unique and beautiful body and what works for your friend may not be the right thing for you.   So how do you know what works and what doesn't? Listening to your body is so powerful and in today's episode, I offer actionable steps to take in order to begin the next step in my five step process. Join me today and learn just how empowering listening to your body is and why it is an important step on your journey to a healthy and joyful life.   Show Notes: [1:39] - So far in this podcast, Asia has discussed her 5 step process and the three we have broken down so far are: Discovering, Exploring, Nourishing. [2:25] - Step 4 is all about listening to your body. When you listen to your body, you learn to trust yourself and develop a keen sense of what is working for you. [3:10] - Sometimes we see something working for someone else and we want to jump on that bandwagon. But it may not work for you. [4:50] - Asia shares a story about her experience with eating dried apricots without knowing that they tend to make people very gassy. [6:20] - This experience led Asia to run through her day in her mind to find the culprit and through the power of listening to her body, she cut apricots out and never had the problem again. [7:00] - A quick and easy actionable step to take that helps you listen to your body is to journal three things when you're eating: What do I notice? How do I feel? What adjustments do I need to make? [8:13] - Take a few moments in the afternoon or evening to jot these things down and when you realize a problem, it is so empowering to be able to make a switch. [8:48] - Through this process, you will develop the confidence to tell others that you have found what works for you. You know your body. [9:15] - Don't forget to download your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally! You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website

It is a new year and at the Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast, we are feeling optimistic, reflective, and future-focused. What do you want this year to be like? My goal is to connect with you more and to help you on this journey to feeling more energy, passion, and joy.   Today's episode is a part 2 to the last episode in which we talked about how to maintain normal iron levels. After all, that's the main goal, right? This sequel episode is all about creating a wellness team. What is a wellness team? Who is on your wellness team? How do you choose who to put on your team? I offer you the first steps in creating such a team and a free guide to help you along the way.   Show Notes: [2:09] - The second part of maintaining normal iron levels is to create a wellness team. This is a personal choice you make. Who is going to be a part of this team that supports you? [2:51] - Asia admits that she had a difficult time creating a wellness team because she typically does things on her own and had a hard time asking for help. [3:29] - This your own journey and body and the decision on who to include on this team is all yours. Do they have your best interests at heart? [4:09] - The first step is to acknowledge and accept that you need help. Help helps you succeed and allows you to heal faster and easier. [5:11] - There are three parts of a wellness team. The first is to find a doctor you trust. [6:01] - Speak out into the world that you are looking for a doctor that you can trust. [6:19] - The second part is to find a specialist that you trust. [7:01] - The third part is to find a health coach. Asia describes what a health coach is and how they can help you plan, meet, and achieve your goals. [8:02] - As a health coach, Asia focuses on helping women meet their health and wellness goals through natural nourishment. [9:10] - A wellness team puts you in charge of this process. It is empowering to know that you make the choices. At the end of the day, this is all about your wellbeing. [9:56] - Taking care of your body and nourishment has a ripple effect into other areas of your life. [10:09] - Grab a free copy of The Nourish Guide to get started on creating a wellness team. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website

Happy New Year! I am so excited to start 2021 off with this episode of the Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast. With a new year, let's get started on a productive, hopeful, joyful high note. The big question: How do I maintain normal iron levels? That's the ultimate goal, right? Well, in today's episode, I share the three things that, when combined, will help you maintain normal iron levels and get you on your way to having more energy and feeling like yourself. I also have a free guide to get started with this plan, because you are not alone on this healing journey. Listen to find out what the hardest part was for me, how I was able to overcome it, and what you need to keep yourself healthy and nourished.   Show Notes: [1:48] - At the end of the day, maintaining normal iron levels is the ultimate goal. [2:15] - The reason Asia struggled for so long is because she didn't have a strategy and she had no help. [3:08] - This is the third step in The Nourish Way. There is a three-prong approach to nourishing your body. [3:52] - Your doctor's recommendation, your blockers and helpers strategy, and your nourishment ritual work together to help your body maintain normal iron levels. [5:08] - Your nourishment ritual includes iron-rich foods you add to your strategy. [6:01] - This is about trying a wide variety of foods to try. [6:12] - Start with The Nourish Guide for 7 steps to get started. [7:04] - Even though Asia has had a hysterectomy, she still needs to maintain her iron levels and has a nourishment ritual. [8:25] - The struggle with strategy and having help stops here. Asia can help you combine your doctor's recommendation with a strategy and nourishment ritual. [9:47] - The nourishment ritual does not need to be complicated. It can be very simple to get the most bang for your buck. [10:21] - Grab the free Nourish Guide to help you on this healing journey. You are not in this alone. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Get your free copy of The Nourish Guide: 7 Steps to Boost Your Energy Naturally Asia Sharif-Clark Website

Like in the last episode, we are diving deep into absorbing more iron. But unlike last time when we were discussing avoiding blockers, this time we are adding helpers. This is my favorite part!    In today's episode, I share some common myths about iron absorption, some actionable steps you can consider for your journey, and I even share some great ways to add delicious, energy-boosting foods to your diet. Remember to always consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet and to know that you are on your own unique journey with your unique body.     Show Notes: [2:01] - One of the biggest myths Asia hears is that you need to be a red meat eater. This is not accurate.  [2:28] - You can even be on a plant-based diet. You need to be intentional on what to add to your meals. [3:38] - Take a deep breath and remember that this is your body and your unique journey. [4:31] - When you think about helpers, you need to think about vitamin C. Asia lists some great food items to choose from that are high in vitamin C. [5:09] - Asia mixes her vitamin C item with her plant based meals. She lists some types of foods she does this with. [6:01] - When you mix vitamin C with tofu, beans, or dark leafy greens, it helps your body absorb more iron. [6:57] - The third tip Asia has for you is to choose food that you like. If you are not choosing foods you are excited about, it is not a sustainable diet. [8:32] - Asia describes one of her favorite meals during the cooler months and how she adds helpers for absorption. She is very intentional on what she adds. [11:04] - Of these choices in vitamin C, what are some things you are already doing? [11:47] - Asia gets creative with the tofu and beans and describes how she makes hummus, dips, and soups. [12:24] - An actionable step to take now is to decide at what time will you enjoy your coffee or tea to avoid them blocking your iron rich meal or supplement. Be intentional. [12:53] - Sauteing greens in an iron skillet is a quick and easy addition to your meals. [13:29] - You always want to check with your doctor before making big changes in your diet. [13:57] - Starting January 10th, join Asia for the Five Day Energy Boosting Challenge. You will spend five days with Asia for her to answer your questions and get started on this journey.  [15:02] - This is not an information dump. This is a full experience with energy boosting recipes and actionable steps to take on your journey. Sign up here. 16:04] - In addition to the Five Day Energy Boosting Challenge, Asia is opening the doors to The Nourish Way. Go to her website for more information. You are not in this alone. Thank you for joining me today for episode 5. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Email Asia: asia@asiasharifclark.com Asia Sharif-Clark Home Page

How do I absorb more iron? That is a question I hear and see all the time! You may feel like you've tried everything and you just aren't getting anywhere. I know because I've been there. I'd like to share with you what worked for me and continues to work for me now: avoid blockers.   What are blockers? Well, in this episode we'll dive into what the five blockers are and where you will find them in your daily diet. Oh, and just because you love these blockers, doesn't mean you have to give them up entirely. Listen on for my story and my tips on how to balance the things you love and making sure you aren't blocking your iron from being absorbed. We can do this!   Show Notes: [1:28] - How do I absorb more iron? This is a question Asia gets quite often. [1:57] - Asia's reason for sharing this discussion today is that she wants you to go from swimming in a sea of symptoms to seeing solutions. [2:13] - Avoiding blockers is Asia's first recommendation. Are you the car or the plane? Asia elaborates on this unusual question. [4:52] - Asia has had the experience as the car and the plane and can empathize with you no matter what you are experiencing now. [5:30] - Avoid blockers. Blockers are five things that are in our diet that block iron absorption. [5:48] - They are coffee, caffeinated tea, other caffeinated drinks, eggs, dairy, and calcium supplements. [6:46] - This is your journey and you can decide what you eat and when you eat it. But Asia shares her story about avoiding blockers. [8:01] - In the same block of time, Asia was taking an iron supplement and drinking coffee (a blocker). She was cancelling out the supplement and she wasn't seeing any changes. [9:01] - Now, Asia changed her morning routine to make sure she doesn't take her iron supplement at the same time as she has her morning coffee. [9:56] - In some cases, you don't have to give the blockers up entirely (always listen to your doctor). Just make some changes to your routine. [11:30] - When you are avoiding blockers, avoid them during the iron rich source time. [12:24] - An actionable step to take now is to decide at what time will you enjoy your coffee or tea to avoid them blocking your iron rich meal or supplement. Be intentional. [13:51] - Next episode, Asia will be expanding on how to absorb more iron by adding helpers. [14:23] - You don't have to eat the foods that “make your skin crawl.” Asia has a lot of great tips for a plant-based diet. [14:52] - Don't forget to mark your calendars for January 10th's energy challenge! [15:15] - The Nourish Way is a coaching community that will help you with this journey.  You are not in this alone. Thank you for joining me today for episode 4. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Email Asia: asia@asiasharifclark.com Asia Sharif-Clark Home Page

After episode 2, we know where to begin. But now what? This second stage can be daunting because you and your doctor are exploring what works for you and what doesn't. I can't emphasize enough to listen to your doctor as you are on your own unique journey with your unique and beautiful body.   What I offer up in this episode is some guidance and actionable steps to help you in this second stage of your journey. And don't forget to learn from my biggest mistake - don't suffer in silence. You are not alone. We are all in this together and with your doctor's guidance, we will find what works for you.    Show Notes: [1:27] - When you need to find out why you have Iron Deficiency Anemia, you are in a very vulnerable and delicate place. Be gentle with yourself because it is an emotional roller coaster. [2:01] - You might have your doctor's recommendations and your specialist's recommendations, but you don't have a clear picture of what to do next. [2:38] - Asia calls this stage “Stage 2: The Exploring Stage” in her coaching community The Nourish Way. This is when you try out a few different things that your doctor recommends. [3:12] - This stage allows you and your doctor to find out what is working and what is not working. [3:51] - You are unique with your own beautiful body with your own health history on your own unique journey. Follow the recommendations from your doctor. [4:54] - Asia also supports people with nutrition in addition to doctor recommendations. [6:06] - Other people will give you a lot of recommendations from people who have experienced relief and success with them. But you need to bring those back to your doctor before implementing anything because this is your unique journey. [6:45] - Asia shares an actionable step for this stage: keep a journal. Write down the recommendation. Write down what you notice and feel. Asia gives examples of what this could look like. [8:04] - Also be sure to write down the results of any recommendation. [9:13] - Asia also wants you to save the date January 10th for a 5 day energy boosting challenge! [10:24] - Asia will also be opening up The Nourish Way, a coaching program and community for Iron Deficiency Anemia. [11:19] - From here on out, if you need anything, email Asia at any time for support. You are not in this alone. Thank you for joining me today for episode 3. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Email Asia: asia@asiasharifclark.com Asia Sharif-Clark Home Page

Have you ever asked yourself, “Where do I begin?” Well, you are in the right place. Starting this journey is often the hardest because of the delicate and vulnerable stage you are in. Regardless, it is the most important.   Listen to today's episode for your first step on your healing journey. These are actionable steps, but please remember that you need to be gentle with yourself. I am passionate about helping others through this healing process and I'm so honored to be with you today. Let's get started.   Show Notes: [1:24] - If you've ever asked yourself, “Where do I begin?” you are in the right place. [1:41] - The most devastating part of Asia's journey was not just the physical toll, but the deeply emotional sense that she would never heal. [2:21] - Asia told herself for 33 years that it was just something she had to live with but she finally found a doctor that would help her. [2:44] - You deserve a doctor who can say to you, “We need to find out what's causing this.” [3:02] - The first step in your healing journey is to discover what the cause of it is. Ask your doctors the right questions and seek a specialist. [3:27] - This stage is a very delicate and vulnerable place to be. Be gentle and patient with yourself. [4:29] - You need to have a support system because it is so easy to give up hope. [5:45] - Asia shares a story about a woman whose dream is to be a youth pastor but her energy levels are so low that she sometimes cannot get out of bed. [6:43] - Finding the root cause of the problem is so important to get to the next step of gaining more energy.  [7:26] - Be gentle with yourself.   You are not in this alone. Thank you for joining me today for episode 2. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.   Links and Resources: Email Asia: asia@asiasharifclark.com

Welcome to the very first episode of Iron Deficiency Anemia Podcast! I am thrilled to be starting this journey with you.  After living with Iron Deficiency Anemia for 33 years, I can say that I get it. I have since recovered and I can tell you, my friend, that renewed energy is just the beginning. This brand new podcast will be a place to share stories - my own personal stories and those of other women. I will also share steps I've taken and steps you can take on your own healing journey. I am committed to helping you live your amazing life with more energy, passion, and joy. In this first episode, listen to the beginning of my story, how I felt for 33 years, and how I felt after taking the steps to heal. And your first actionable step in your own journey! Show Notes: [1:18] - Welcome to the first episode! Asia gives her background with Iron Deficiency Anemia, having lived with it for 33 years before recovering. [1:58] - When she wasn't passing out, she was dizzy. She constantly felt like she was hit by a truck. [2:27] - Through all of this, her biggest mistake was that she was suffering alone. She kept working through it all without talking about it. [3:20] - Somewhere around the age 49, Asia had to make a change because work was threatened. [4:16] - The key takeaway from today's episode is to not suffer in silence. Get help as early as you can. [4:31] - Asia shares her experience with her great doctor. She immediately told her doctor that she needed a hysterectomy, but her doctor slowed down and wanted to find out the cause of these problems. [5:37] - This was the first time Asia had realized that this wasn't something she had to live with and that with help, it might be something she can overcome. [6:01] - For Asia, the best option was a hysterectomy as her problems stemmed from fibroids, but she is clear that everyone's situation is different and you need to follow your doctor's recommendations. [7:28] - Take a breath and think about what your life would look like if you had more energy. What are some things that you are longing to do that you can't do right now? [8:56] - All the things we love to do require energy. Write down what you want to do with more energy and put it away as a goal to work towards. You are not in this alone. Thank you for joining me today for episode 1. Come back for more stories, more support, and more joy as we go on this journey together.