Iron Absorption

Iron is a mineral needed by our bodies. Iron is a part of all cells and does many things. For example, iron (as part of the protein hemoglobin) carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. Having too little hemoglobin is called anaemia. Iron also helps our muscles store and use oxygen.

Iron is a part of many enzymes and is used in many cell functions. Enzymes help our bodies digest foods and also help with many other important reactions that occur within our bodies. When our bodies don't have enough iron, many parts of our bodies are affected.

The best sources of iron in our diet are:

• Red meat
• Egg yolks
• Dark, leafy greens (spinach, cabbages, kale, broccoli)
• Dried fruit (prunes, raisins)
• Iron-enriched cereals and grains (check the labels)
• Molluscs (oysters, clams, scallops)
• Turkey or chicken giblets
• Beans, lentils, chick peas and soybeans
• Liver
• Artichokes

And here's a tip: If you eat iron-rich foods along with foods (e.g. sweet peppers, orange juice, tomatoes) that provide plenty of vitamin C, your body can better absorb the iron. Conversely, avoid tea and coffee with meals as they lower iron absorption.