Iron is an essential nutrient that can be found in various food sources. Here are some of the top sources of iron:
Animal-Based Sources
- Red Meat: Beef, lamb, and pork are rich in heme iron.
- Poultry: Chicken and turkey contain iron, although white meat has less than dark meat.
- Fish and Seafood: Shellfish like clams, oysters, and mussels are high in iron, as are sardines, anchovies, and tuna.
- Organ Meats: Liver, kidney, and pate are rich in iron.
Plant-Based Sources
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans are all high in iron.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, collard greens, and beet greens contain iron.
- Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and almonds are good sources of iron.
- Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread are iron-rich.
Other Sources
- Fortified Cereals: Many breakfast cereals are fortified with iron.
- Dried Fruit: Dried apricots, prunes, and raisins are good sources of iron.
Remember to consume vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits or bell peppers) along with iron-rich foods to enhance iron absorption.
