Nurse Jon, Rn (Scranton, Pa) on 06/04/2012:
Black Strap Molasses / Anemia
When working in the hospital as the case manager for patients who would refuse blood transfusions (the majority of my patients were not for religous reasons, rather for health concerns) there would be some who the blood building drug EPO would not work.
According to the manufacturer guidelines, the TIBC (total iron binding capicity) study needed to be used and not the traditioinal iron stores that the docs typically asked for. When the EPO did not work, the TIBC was always low. On getting a doctors order and approval from the pharmacy, we gave one table spoon of BSM mixed with peanut butter three times a day.
We saw 3 grams per dl increase in RBC (red blood cell) counts in as little as 24 hours. It was not that the body was making blood miraculously as it takes 2 weeks for a stem cell (red blood cell wanna-be's) to mature, rather the theory was that the signaling that the blood would be available soon caused a release of shunted blood.
This happened in patients with hemaglobin blood counts as low as 2.9 (the lowest I case managed). Counts continued to rise for the next few days until they were at safe levels. Most were cancer patients. Research shows that avoiding blood transfusions decreases the risk of metastatic cancer. BSM makes this possible. None of my BSM doped patients returned with metastatic cancer. In time we discovered that EPO was not needed when there was no arthritis. The BSM worked on its own.
In over 600 patients I cared for, not only did none die, they often got out of the hospital faster (1/2 to 3 days) and cheaper than those who got blood. The oldest, a 79 year old woman, got out three days faster than a 35 year old who got blood, both with broken hips. More importantly, The BSM doped patients had lower morbidity (getting sick) and lower mortality (dying) rates that those who got blood.
It should be noted, the only way to get this care is to go to a hospital that specializes in advance transfusion practice or bloodless medicine care.
Now as a holistic nurse, this is one of the treatments of choice for many of my patients who have Risk for 'Altered Nutrition: Less than body requirement to maintain normal red blood cell count (this is a nursing diagnosis for someone who has a medical diagnosis of the various types of anmeia).'
For those with arthritis, I decrease the BSM to a teaspoon once a day and add one raw red beet to their weekly diet.
Christopher (Elgin, Illinois, U.s.) on 03/15/2012:
My wife is pregnant and is also anemic (has come very close to fainting) and is also hypoglycemic (coconut oil has helped along with snacks throughout the day). She has been taking iron supplements even before she was told to. My mom told me about Blackstrap Molasses from earthclinic which we both visit often but of course overlooked anemia here. My wife has been taking Blackstrap Molasses for about 5-6 weeks now and the doctor called this morning, her iron levels are going up (still low though) and said if she keeps at the amount she has been doing she should be fine by delievery (will continue to take it after also). I have also noticed she is much more clear-headed and alert now, the hemoglobin is finally starting to be able to do its job! Thanks for everyone's posts.
Lynda555555 (Grand Rapids, Mi) on 07/14/2011:
Warning
Why do you add recipes that contain milk with molasses to absorb iron? Calcium blocks the absorption of iron. Many people may get sick or worse die from inaccurate info about iron.
Lee (Belleville, Arkansas) on 07/11/2011:
I love BSM. I had 5 tumors and had to have a hysterectomy. My blood count was down to 8. (The normal being 12-15) my doctor told me I almost had to have a blood transfusion after surgery, but she decided to put me on Ferrus sulfate iron pills. I hated that, so at my 2 week check up we quit the iron and went to BSM. I can tell a real difference!!! I also take folic acid b/c that builds your blood too. I went back to work 4 weeks after my surgery. I would advise anyone to take BSM.
Richelle (Los Angeles, California, Usa) on 06/15/2011:
I suffer from anemia and heavy peiods with bad cramps. I tried BSM but didnt get results fast enough. Maybe I should have given it more time. I have decided to try it again but I am juicing now on a regular basis. Can I use the BSM in the juicing?
Zen (Cairns, Australia) on 11/19/2010:
I was diagnosed with anemia a few months back, I started out taking BSM for 1 month, when I had my iron rechecked I was really optimistic that it would have improved my iron stores but it hadn't. The iron in my blood had gone up from 11 to 19 (normal ranges are 5-30) but my ferritin had dropped even lower from 21 to 18 (normal range 30-150). I swapped to Spatone and my ferratin improved to 26 within 2 weeks.
Krystal (Rochester, Ny) on 10/08/2010:
I use to be a die hard blood donor for years. The ARC turned me down a lot now due to low iron from my Pica/period. I took 1 tbs of blackstrap molasses (non sulfured kind) with water a day, drank beetjuice with apple once a week and my hemoglobin levels shot up fast! I have more energy, I am happier, hair grew back, I gave blood to those who need it now (how ironic huh? @_@), and my pica is cured!
Nataly (London, UK) on 09/03/2009:
Better But With Side Effects
I have been taking black strap molasses 2-3 tsps a day now for the past four weeks, for low iron level anaemia, within a few days I noticed a marked improement, feeling stronger, emotionally and physially, eyelashes looked longer, hair much softer, eyes large and healthy! I had already been taking two tsps of ferrous sulphate twice a day under medical supervision.
I took the black strap molasses for pain in the ankle and leg due to the low iron, I do not think this helped with this but also take some tumeric power which undoubtably has helped and the symptoms are gone.
But I have noticed an increased in fine body hair on the arms and legs... what is this caused from? I also take a bit of cumin each day.
Look forward to your comments. Also should I lower the dose of the iron supplement or the molasses?
Kylie (Whitianga, New Zealand) on 09/02/2008:
Blackstrap Molasses & Anemia: I have HYPERthyroidism and have to have blood tests every month which show low iron (but I've never been diagnosed as anemic). I tried Blackstrap Molasses for a month and my iron reading improved substantially. I took about 4 teaspoons a day for a month. My specialist asked me to stop taking it as she was worried about the iodine content but I'm going to go back on it as it doesn't constipate (and I feel is better absorbed) than iron tablets. I also notice better, tighter skin on my face and a healthy glow. Can't stand the taste or smell of it so the easiest way I've found to take it is to put a teaspoon of it in your mouth, then wash it down with water. Quick and painless!
Shelly (Billings, Montana) on 04/13/2008:
I have been anemic all of my life. I was born with it. After a recent blood test revealed my level being at 9 points, my physician insisted on having me eat an iron fortified cereal each day. When I suggested black strap molasses, he laughed and said it would only make me sick. I decided to go with BSM after reading up on it's nutrients. Nothing against cereal, but I'm not a big cereal eater. After taking in 2 tablespoons of BSM for a month, my level went from 9 points to 11. I stopped feeling tired, having rapid heart beats, and slept better. Oh and another benefit to this? Lighter period and less cramping. My doctor could not believe that BSM raised my level. To note: I used unsulphered BSM.
Kim (Philadelphia, PA) on 11/25/2007:
About 6 months ago I found out I had very low iron levels (they were at a 7 and I think normal is a 12) The DR. put me on iron pills twice daily which did help. Than I read about the BSM and started taking it about a week or so ago instead of the iron pills. At first I thought it made me feel better and energized but now I am starting to notice some of my old symtoms coming back again like dizzy spells at night and just an overall strange feeling. I'm kind of concerned too because I read on another site that BSM really has no benefits at all and that was on rawfoodexplained.com I was just wondering if anyone knows if there is any truth to the article or not. I will be getting my iron levels checked soon and will find out if it is actually working or not.
Nicole (Los Angeles, CA) on 09/28/2007:
I am a huge fan of BSM. I have used it to help alleviate symptoms from anemia and it really works. Recently, I had a weird thing happen where I was feeling slightly nauseated after consuming even small amounts of sugar. I switched from drinking my customary one cup of coffee to a cup of English tea sweetened with BSM and some half & half. The nausea disappeared and on top of that I feel like I am burning 'cleaner' energy- if you will. Maybe it's the minerals. Give it a try- it's great!
Katy (Astoria, Oregon) on 06/04/2007:
Molasses (Remedy): Molasses is packed with iron and other nutrients. I have a large fibroid and have been losing lots of blood during period, this caused my iron deficiency! I was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia and was not craving ice like many of the other writers, but was eating tons of MINTS. Ice craving, I have read many times, is associated with iron deficiency! It's actually called "Pica," or a craving for unusual substances without nutritional value. People often eat dirt as well. I noticed that when I ate molasses as well as started an iron supplement along with my usual multivitamin, my mint craving went away. I see that people say their ice craving went away after taking molasses and that made me want to mention the link with iron deficiency and this strange craving! Thanks.
Maria (Houston, Texas) on 05/05/2007:
I was suffering for years with anemia and I had even been let go from my job due to the fact that I could not keep my strength up. I had been told by several doctors that my multiple fibroids required a hysterectomy. I had no tolerance for ANY type of iron supplement. I was steadily getting worse. One doctor even gave up treating me. When that happened I was greatly distressed. I began to recall an island friend telling me that I needed to take blackstrap molasses. So I began using it and lo and behold I improved immediately. My blood count went up from 6 to 7.8 in one month. I now am going through menopause and have found that it helps even with that. I love it and tell everyone about it. My husband takes it daily. I also have no more symptoms of anemia and fibroid issues. I take it now for the calcium and other minerals that are great for menopause troubles.
Misty (Harrisonville, Missouri) on 04/27/2007:
Hello, I have written before about the blackstrap molasses offering an idea on how to drink it. I have been fighting a fibroid tumor for a long time now and began several months ago with the molasses. I just had a sono yesterday and there was no change with my tumor. I did however notice some great changes when I began the molasses. It did get rid of my anemic symptoms, it will keep you regular and I think if you include this in your daily diet it may help to prevent fibroid tumors from forming, or help shrink small tumors when caught early enough. I think over all my health has improved greatly since I began eating at home and avoid eating out as much as possible. Coconut oil is great for the skin I can't live without it. I like the A.C.V. it does work great external and can help you loose weight, but I don't think it is the miracle cure for weight loss. I still have to eat healthier and get active or the weight will remain the same or I will gain. Pretty much everything I have tried so far on this site I have had great results with. Be healthy and God Bless.
Wikid Willow (Naples, USA) on 03/28/2007:
I had SEVERE anemia after the birth of my son 29 years ago... Was already on prenatal vitamins with lots of iron. The Dr. suggested Black Strap molasses, and after the intial tast encounter, learned to LOVE it. My anemia went away and I felt better than I had in years. Great news, yes? Well, where do I find Black Strap molasses now... there is dark, etc., but I never see Black Strap! I really need to locate a source of it because my father is having some serious troubles... I think that since modern medicine cannot find or do anything for him, and based on what is happening (he is slipping away) that Black Strap cannot hurt... PLEASE HELP! Thanks.
Connie (Rochester, NY) on 03/10/2007:
I have always had heavy periods, and had a fibroid tumor removed several years ago. I was anemic often as a teenager, but couldn't stomach any iron pills. Now as a 40-year-old woman, I'm starting to become "normal" in terms of menstrual flow, but often feel weak and fatigued. I had my thyroid checked, but that turned out to be okay. I then figured I was probably lacking iron. I remembered reading somewhere that blackstrap molasses was high in iron. I bought an inexpensive bottle ($2.79) of House of Herbs blackstrap molasses and was quite impressed to see that one tablespoon contains 70% of the RDA for iron. For the past two months, I've been adding a tablespoon to my coffee every morning in place of sugar. It tastes great, and I haven't felt tired or drained. I see here from others' comments that molasses is also a good remedy for constipation (which had also frequently plagued me, despite my high-fiber diet and increased intake of water), and thinking back over the past several weeks, I realize that I haven't been constipated. Great to know that it works that way, too!
Averell (Fort Washington, Maryland) on 02/27/2007:
Being extremely weak and anemic from my monthly cycle. I decided to try black strap molasses. I put a Tbs. in my green tea several times a day. I feel so much better, not weak,faint or light headed.My husband even got into it and he said it gave him energy. The doctor who lives next door recommended Floridine from the Natural Health Food Store, it smells and tastes just like molasses only more expensive. I wish I would have found the benefits of molasses a long time ago. I remember my mom used to have some in her kitchen cabinet and put it in baked beans.
Debbi (Greenwich, CT) on 02/01/2007:
I became very anemic last year almost to the point of having an endometrial ablation and blood transfusions! I took my health into my own hands and did lots of research. Blackstrap molasses (unsulfured) restored my iron levels and my energy! I still take it everyday!
Krystal (Memphis, TN) on 12/13/2006:
I have been anemic all my life. When I decided to change my eating habits and study herbalism, I came across a book that talked about how black strap molasses could shrink tumors and how high it was in iron. I use to have the ice cravings but no more. For the first time in my life I am not anemic. My mother was very surprised and has started using the product for herself. It works! I am living proof; if you're anemic, take 1 tablespoon each morning in a half cup of warm water and it will do the trick! Nature is a wonderful thing!
Laurie (Los Angeles, CA) on 12/03/2006:
I use Plantation Unsulphered blackstrap molasses. It cured anemia and increased my iron levels. Prior to taking molasses again, I used otc iron pills with minimal visible results. I now take two TBS daily of the molasses, and my iron levels rose. Although the molasses tastes different, it's better to take molasses now then chemo later in life.
Carol (Pocatello, Idaho) on 11/07/2006:
Warning
I work as a Nurse Practitioner in a hematology clinic. Please remember that not all patients with anemia have it because of low iron stores. Too much iron can have significant medical side effects. Therefore, I would recommend having your iron blood levels checked prior to starting any replacement iron, molasses, or other herbal products.
Kati (Traverse City, MI) on 10/11/2006:
I am extremely Anemic, especially during that time of month. I have tried Iron pills and Iron efficient foods such as spinach, but nothing really helped. So I looked in a natural cure book and I found out that pure black strap molasses has a high Iron proficiency so I mixed two heaping tablespoons of molasses in a glass with 16 oz of cold milk. I drank this concoction once or twice a day. It gave me so much energy and I didn't feel so sluggish during that time of month. Plus This molasses drink tastes so good (Much better than taking it straight), and just as effective. the sad part is pure black strap molasses is kind of expensive so I am not able to take it all the time. I would appreciate it if someone knows where I could get pure molasses for a cheap price to post it on this site, as I visit it frequently to find different cures.
Loreeli (Brodhead, WI) on 07/10/2006:
I have been extremely anemic most of my life. When I was pregnant they gave me the iron pills and they will constipate you and are not even a good source of iron. I got on the House of herbs black strap molasses and it made such a difference. It has 70% iron and I haven't found any other with such high content. I lost a baby and they wanted me to have a blood transfusion, but I didn't want to so instead to build my blood back up fast, I used the black strap molasses. I was recently diagnosed with degenerative disc disease and rheumatoid arthritis and am more anemic with the disease and recently I have been so fatigued and in reading about my disease and realizing I was just extremely anemic, I got the molasses out and instantly, I felt better in my head and had more energy. I have now ran out of it and have not been able to find the House of Herbs kind anywhere. This is why I got on here and if anybody can tell me where to order it, I would sure appreciate it. It is a life saver and the difference between feeling good and not. Thank you
