Iron

Iron is needed to make new blood cells. If you are not getting enough iron, you can develop anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak, and look pale.

One serving of most breakfast cereals with added iron should provide enough iron for the day. Other good sources of iron include:

  • Spinach
  • Beans (soybeans, white beans, lentils, kidney beans, chick peas)
  • Clams and oysters
  • Meats (beef, duck, lamb)
  • Organ meats (liver, giblets)

If you are age 51 or older, you need only 8 mg of iron per day. Talk with your doctor if you are concerned that you are not getting the recommended amount.

It helps to eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and tomatoes, along with iron-rich foods. Vitamin C helps your body use iron better.

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