Are You Getting Enough Iron?

Probably not.  Many of us don’t even think about our daily iron intake, yet it is essential in the production of our blood.  But how do we know that we’re getting enough?   The average recommended daily intake is 15mg.

However, this number varies between men and women and is even more variable among pregnant women.

Additionally, our bodies’ ability to absorb iron plays a crucial role in the amount we consume.  In order to be sure you take enough and absorb enough, check with your doctor.  In the meantime, try to include some of the following foods into your diet in an effort to maintain regular intake.

Green Vegetables
Spinach, kale are usually at the top of the list, but don’t forget to include asparagus, broccoli and brussel sprouts when considering iron in your veggies.  Less popular greens like collards and swiss chard are also loaded with iron.

Beans & Lentils
There are a whole variety of beans and lentils that contain iron.  These include, kidney, navy, black and pinto – in the bean family.  Brown and French lentils among others have naturally occurring iron.

Meat & Fish
Lean meats like pork, beef, chicken and turkey also contain some levels of iron.  However, these foods have significantly less iron than veggies and legumes.

Fortified Beverages
Most varieties of milk are now fortified with iron.  Also, fruit juices that have been iron-fortified are starting to pop up on grocery store shelves.

This list above is only a sample of the iron-rich foods available, but if you begin by including some of them in your diet, you will considerably increase your intake of iron.

 

Alison Taylor
		About the author:
		Alison Taylor studies English literature at the University of Toronto. Dissecting language and absorbing literary theory provides her with intellectual stimulation, but Alison’s passion for overall wellness and contemporary culture compels her to write for the mainstream reader as well as her professors.  When Alison isn’t at her computer, she is hanging out with her very own “mini me”, personally training clients in her home studio, or baking cookies in an attempt to pacify an insatiable sweet tooth.
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