List of Iron Rich Foods

We all need some iron in our diets. Some people need to eat more iron rich foods than others. Read on to see a list of foods that are high in iron. Our bodies need this essential mineral to avoid certain deficiencies. It is a necessary part of all of our cells and plays an important role in maintaining good health. One of the important things that this mineral does includes helping our muscles to properly store and utilize oxygen. It is also instrumental in maintaining proper hemoglobin levels in our blood, so that our body is properly oxygenated.

A person can become iron deficient when they do not get enough iron in their diets. This common condition can lead to anemia, and can impair the function of certain body functions. Some of the symptoms and signs of iron deficiency can include:

• tired, weak and feeling fatigued
• decreased immune function
• glossitis, which is an inflamed tongue
• decreased performance

It is important to have one's blood checked for this deficiency, especially within high risk groups such as pregnant women and young children. If this is a concern, your healthcare provider can administer the proper blood tests to determine your blood iron levels and screen for anemia. Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on gaining and maintaining proper iron and hemoglobin levels in the body for proper development, growth and body function.

List of Iron Rich Foods

When humans eat foods that contain iron, it is absorbed into the body. A diet of foods that are rich in iron is important for many people. The following list is not a complete list, but is representative of the types of foods that contain this essential mineral. Including foods with vitamin-C can increase the absorption rate.

• Beef
• Liver
• Chicken
• Chicken liver
• Clams
• Oysters
• Shrimp
• Tuna
• Salmon
• Turkey
• Ham
• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and collards
• Dried Apricots
• Baked potato
• Peanuts, pistachios, almonds, sunflower seeds
• Prunes, raisins, figs
• Broccoli
• Wheat germ
• Beans, lentils, lima beans, tofu
• Breakfast cereals enriched and fortified with iron
• Prune Juice

Video: Healthy Food Choices for Iron  



Resources:
• Iron rich foods - www.webmd.com/diet/iron-rich-foods    
• Nutrition basics for everyone - iron and deficiency: www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/vitamins/iron.html.
• ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/iron/