Apparently I need to iron out my diet.
In honor of my getting rejected by the Red Cross for a lack of iron in my blood, I present to you a list of foods that are high in iron.
- Liver, beef, pork, poultry and fish are excellent sources. They contain heme iron, which is readily absorbed by the body.
- Shellfish, such as shrimp, clams, mussels and oysters
- Iron fortified cereals
- Beans or legumes -- especially kidney beans, pinto beans and chickpeas
- Vegetables such as peas, spinach, and lentils
- Fruits, especially apricots and raisins
- enriched and whole grain breads
- molasses
Notes
- Absorption of iron from any of sources can be improved by eating Vitamin-C rich foods in the same meal, such as orange juice, grapefruit, cantaloupe, greens peppers and tomatoes.
- If you do not eat meat, avoid drinking tea with meals. Tea has tannins, which will decrease the absorption of iron.
Source: American Red Cross handout
