Hey y’all, today we gonna talk about iron and why it’s important for us to get enough of it in our bodies. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in your blood and keeping your cells functioning properly. And guess what? Black people are at a higher risk for iron deficiency anemia, so it’s crucial that we pay attention to our iron intake.
Iron Rich Foods
One of the best ways to make sure we’re getting enough iron is through our diet. Here’s a list of some iron-rich foods:
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Seafood
- Beans and lentils
- Nuts and seeds
- Leafy green vegetables
- Dried fruit, such as raisins and apricots
- Fortified cereals and breads
Now, just because we have this list doesn’t mean we have to force ourselves to eat things we don’t like. Incorporating just one or two of these items into your meals can make a big difference.
Iron Absorption
Did you know that certain foods can actually hinder our bodies from absorbing the iron we consume? For example, calcium, found in dairy products, and tannins, found in tea and coffee, can make it harder for our bodies to absorb iron. On the other hand, consuming vitamin C at the same time as your iron-rich foods can increase absorption. So, consider pairing your iron-rich foods with a side of citrus fruit or a glass of orange juice.
Supplements
Sometimes, it can be difficult to get enough iron through our diets alone. In these cases, iron supplements can be helpful. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor first, as too much iron can actually be harmful to our bodies. Iron supplements also can cause constipation, so make sure to drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods if you’re taking them.
Conclusion
So there you have it, y’all! Iron is super important for our health and it’s something we really need to pay attention to. Incorporating iron-rich foods into our diets, being mindful of what we eat with those foods, and talking to our doctors about supplements can all help us stay healthy and strong. Let’s take care of ourselves!
