Iron is an essential nutrient that our bodies need in order to function properly. Iron is a mineral that helps to transport oxygen throughout the body, and a deficiency in iron can lead to a condition called anemia. There are many different foods that are rich in iron, including:
- Red meat, such as beef and lamb
- Pork
- Chicken
- Fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines
- Shellfish, such as oysters and clams
- Beans, lentils, and peas
- Tofu
- Nuts and seeds, such as cashews and pumpkin seeds
- Dark leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
- Dried fruits, such as raisins and apricots
- Iron-fortified cereals and breads
Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of these foods can help you get the iron you need. It’s important to note that the body absorbs iron from plant-based sources (such as beans and greens) less efficiently than it does from animal sources. So if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may need to eat more iron-rich foods or take an iron supplement to meet your body’s needs.
