Iron is a mineral essential to the formation of hemoglobin, a vital substance of blood. It supplies oxygen to all of the body tissues. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include tiredness, irritability, paleness and short attention span, the result of too little oxygen to the organs. Iron deficiency anemia usually means that iron-rich foods are lacking in your diet. Foods containing Vitamin C enhance iron absorption and foods containing calcium and fiber inhibit iron absorption. Everyone needs to consume adequate iron in the diet, and there is special needs for iron with growth. Growing children, teenagers and pregnant women are at special risk for iron deficiency anemia.
The following are foods high in iron that should be chosen frequently.