19/11/2018
Obtain Iron from various foods
Iron is vital for our health and found in numerous food, still many people are deficient in it. This is mostly because it is not easily assimilated into our body, as our digestive system faces difficulties to extract it from the consumed food, and store it.
Paul Thomas, a scientific consultant to the National Institute of Health, office of Dietary Supplements said, “The major reason we need it is that it helps to transport oxygen throughout the body”.
Role of Iron in our body
It is a vital component of hemoglobin. It transport oxygen from the lungs throughout your body and body won’t be able the get sufficient oxygen without Red Blood Cells.
Problems due to lack of Iron
You’re going to fatigued.
It affects function of brain.
Poor immune system.
Incase of Pregnancy, baby’s risk of being born too early or smaller than normal.
Benefits of Iron
Healthy immune system
Healthy cells, skin, hair, and nails,
Proper brain functioning
Proper supply of blood to heart
Healthy Baby
Recommended Intake
For Women - 9 mg daily and 8 mg after menopause.
For men - 8 mg daily
For Children - need higher level of iron for their growth.
(4-8 years) - 10mg daily
(9-13 years) - 8 mg daily
In pregnancy - 20mg in order to ensure a healthy development of the fetus.
For Rich Iron you can start consuming the following vegetables:-
Spinach - It is low in calories and high in antioxidants and vitamin A.
Pumpkin Seeds – It has high amounts of magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin A, E, F. They contain all the essential amino acids. Pumpkin seeds are also rich in fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids.
Broccoli – It has vitamin c, k, folates and fibre. Vitamin c supports the iron absorption in the body.
Dark Choclates - It is also high in magnesium and copper as well as prebiotic fibre, which is beneficial for the friendly bacteria in the intestines. It lowers cholesterol level and reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Kale - It contains vitamin A, C, K, iron. Vitamin k maintains health of bones and fibre which prevents constipation, lower cholesterol and slow down the passage of glucose in to blood.
Beetroot – It is high in magnesium and calcium. It supports the healthy function of the liver, while the high folic acid levels help the assimilation of carbohydrates.
Mug Beans - It is loaded with iron. It is a rich source of copper, potassium, and zinc. The regular consumption of legumes has been found to control blood sugar levels, help weight loss and lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
Important – Increase the intake of food rich in vitamin c like oranges, lemon, and kiwi which will help proper assimilation of iron.