Iron is an essential mineral required for the body to function properly. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body and is part of several enzymes that break down foods for nutrient absorption. Without sufficient iron stores, cell function in our bodies may be inhibited resulting in lack of energy, diminished mental capacity and decreased motor function. Vegetarians are at a greater risk of being anemic, which is a lack of iron in the body and can benefit by including iron-rich foods in their diets.
A 3/4 cup serving of bran flakes will add 5.0 mg of iron to your diet. Add blueberries or sliced strawberries to the bran flakes for variety.
A snack of ten dried figs adds 3.6 mg of iron to your diet. Dried figs are great snacks by themselves for you or your children. Add a dried fig to a green smoothie to cut any bitterness of the leafy greens.
A half-cup of cooked spinach that was cooked from fresh spinach adds 3.2 mg of iron to your total daily iron intake. Spinach goes well with brown rice or in soups.
Lentils are so versatile in that they can be the star of a hearty soup, baked into a casserole or simmered with some carrots and onions and a little seasoning. A half-cup of cooked lentils adds 3.3 mg of iron to your daily diet.
An ounce of lightly salted roasted pumpkin seeds adds 4.2 mg of iron to your diet. Pumpkin seeds are a great snack for you or to pack in work and school lunches.
Vary the foods in a vegetarian diet to ensure your body is receiving a wide variety of essential nutrients. Vitamin C helps iron absorption whereas calcium can decrease absorption, so try to plan meals ahead as much as possible for the highest iron absorption possible.
Excellent list of information, great job!
Good information on iron rich foods for vegetarian diets. Thanks for the research and for sharing. This is exceptionally helpful! High 5
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