Did You Know…Iron & Citrus?

Did you know...iron and citrus

Iron is a very important mineral for the human body. It plays a vital role in the production of red blood cells, energy, metabolism and the transportation of oxygen to all parts of the body. Many people today are deficient in iron due to their lack of dietary intake which can leave one feeling tired, pale and irritable. Food is one of the best and most natural sources of iron.

Citrus fruits help the body better absorb the iron from the foods we eat. Try to include citrus or vitamin C enriched foods to your iron rich meals. A glass of fresh orange juice, a lemon/lime based salad dressing, or orange/grapefruit segments added to your salads are just a few ways to incorporate citrus into your meals.

Some iron rich foods include:

  • Red meat
  • Poultry
  • Seafood; especially clams, mussels and oysters
  • Beans
  • Lentil
  • Tofu
  • Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale
  • Dried fruit, such as raisins and apricots
  • Iron-fortified cereals, breads and pastas
  • Nuts and Seeds
  • Ginger
Some Vitamin C rich foods include:
  • Oranges
  • Grapefruit
  • Lemons
  • Limes
  • Broccoli
  • Kiwi
  • Leafy greens
  • Melons
  • Peppers
  • Strawberries
  • Tangerines
  • Tomatoes

Meals don’t have to be fancy or stressful just keep them healthy and be creative – eat well and have fun!