Women's Health: 5 Ways to Incorporate Iron into Your Diet

Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is important for the well-being of everyone, and especially prenatal and postpartum parents. One essential mineral that plays a vital role during the prenatal and postpartum stages is iron.

​Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, fatigue, headaches, mood changes, poor concentration, and a weakened immune system. To ensure optimal health, it is important for expectant parents and new parents to incorporate iron-rich foods into their daily diet. In this blog, we will explore the five easy ways to boost your iron intake.

1. Lean Red Meat and Poultry:
Including lean red meat and poultry in your diet is an excellent way to increase your iron intake. Red meat, such as beef and lamb, is not only a great source of iron but also provides high-quality protein, essential for the growth and development of both the parent and baby. Similarly, poultry, like chicken and turkey, is a source of iron that can be easily incorporated into various dishes, such as stir-fries, salads, or grilled options. Beef and chicken liver are also great sources of iron.​

2. Dark Leafy Greens:
Dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and broccoli, are rich in iron and other important nutrients like folate and calcium. These greens can be easily incorporated into salads, smoothies, or sautéed as a side dish. Including a variety of dark leafy greens in your meals not only boosts iron levels but also adds a healthy dose of fiber, aiding digestion and balancing blood sugar and hormones.

3. Legumes and Beans:
Legumes and beans, including lentils, chickpeas, and black beans, are affordable, versatile, and excellent sources of iron. They are also high in fibre and protein, making them an ideal addition to a balanced prenatal or postpartum diet. These ingredients can be used in soups, stews, salads, or even made into tasty spreads like hummus. Experimenting with different recipes will help keep your meals exciting and nutritious.

4. Cooking with Iron Cast Pans and Using Lucky Iron Fish:
Cooking with cast iron pans is a way to increase your iron intake. Cast iron pans release small amounts of iron into the food during cooking, which can be beneficial for those looking to boost their iron levels. Additionally, an innovative product called the Lucky Iron Fish can be used while cooking. The Lucky Iron Fish is a small iron cooking tool that can be added to pots or pans during the cooking process. It releases a measured amount of iron into the food, providing a convenient and effective way to incorporate iron into your meals. By using cast iron pans and/or the Lucky Iron Fish, you can enhance the iron content of your dishes.

5. Incorporate Vitamin C-Rich Foods:
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in enhancing iron absorption. Combining iron-rich foods with those high in vitamin C can help maximize the absorption of iron. Include citrus fruits like oranges, strawberries, or grapefruits in your diet. Additionally, add bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, or dark berries to your meals to ensure an ample supply of vitamin C.

Maintaining adequate iron levels is essential for everyone, and even more essential in pregnancy and postpartum. By incorporating these top five ways to boost iron intake into your diet, including lean red meat, dark leafy greens, legumes and beans, cooking with cast iron pans, trying out the Lucky Iron Fish, and incorporating vitamin C-rich foods, you can ensure a well-rounded nutritional plan. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a Naturopathic doctor, for personalized guidance.