Foods That Fight Iron Deficiency

Anemia is one of the most common disorders in young people and children today. Anemia, in common terms, iron deficiency, is caused by a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin, in the blood. When these hemoglobin cells are lacking oxygen, fatigue, dizziness and a lack of stamina might be the result. In cases of severe anemia you might suffer from shortness of breath, or even heart problems. This is why it is vital for young people to have a sufficient amount of iron in their bodies at all times.

The most common type of anemia is iron-deficiency anemia. One of its main causes is a reduced production of red blood cells which often leads to a deficiency in nutrients and oxygen to the blood. The problem with iron deficiency is that our bodies take a long time to replenish iron, and if it is not a staple in our regular diet it may take years to reach healthy iron levels. Having low iron levels may lead to more serious problems like malnutrition because of a poor diet, and lack of vital nutrients and minerals. Children are far more susceptible to iron deficiency because of their growing bodies, and sometimes their poor diets. This is why feeding your children foods which are rich in iron is as important as ever.

To counteract iron deficiency a diet of more iron rich foods is absolutely necessary. Iron rich foods will increase iron in the blood, which will lead to better absorption in the tissues. The most common forms of iron we digest are iron from meat sources and iron absorbed from plant sources. Meats have an excellent amount of available iron, and provide the necessary amount to sustain proper iron levels. Iron from meat sources is more easily absorbed than that obtained from plants. Also calcium and vitamin C can increase your iron levels, as they help the body absorb iron better.

One of the best sources of iron is raisins. One cup of raisins alone contains almost 5 milligrams of iron, which is outstanding. Raisins are also rich in potassium and high in electrolytes as well. People who live in colder climates like Aspen use a lot of raisins in their food to supplement for the lack of natural iron in their diets. Spinach is also a great source of iron. Spinach is filled with high iron levels and vitamin C. It is also an excellent source of potassium. Other foods that are high in iron are foods like cereals, oatmeal, as well as dried fruits such as apricots and peaches. Pasta can be a good source of iron as well as carbohydrates.

It is important to choose the right foods for your diet that are not only desirable, but vital to the body as well. Feeding your kids in Aspen, LA, or anywhere in the country, high amounts of iron will help their bodies to grow and sustain them well into adulthood. If you are an adult and have a low iron diet, it is time you rethink what you have been eating and start trying more iron rich foods today.

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