Anemia during Karate graduation?

[LinkRReeves]

I'm a woman practicing Kyokushin Karate and am going to attend a karate graduation in two days (I feel I have the techniques right). I think I have the strength and stamina, but there is a problem: I have anemia, and that makes me get dizzy and lightheaded easily during training (this is especially annoying during kata training, perhaps because we turn around many times in quick succession). It has happened a few times that I can barely breathe and have to ask to sit down. I've never fainted before, but I don't want this graduation to be the first time.

The dizziness bothers me a lot, and if it becomes a problem during graduation I don't know how to hang in there until the end. It makes me feel weak, and frustrated. I don't want special treatment because I'm a girl with anemia.

For now I plan to drink lots of water (perhaps a little bit every hour until graduation?) and get enough sleep. I'm already on iron supplement medicine to blunt the edge of my anemia, but I'd very much like more tips. How about food and drink? I've learned not to rely on short-lasting energy drinks, but how about coffee?

I appreciate answers and tips.

 

[davide]

Liver is always a good food to help with anemia. I personally can't stomach it but some love it. Natural sources of nutrients are always preferable to pill form.
When I was young I was a borderline anemic.
Stay away from energy drinks and caffeine in any form.

 

[todm]

check for diabetes, watch the sugar.