Dr. Cathy Carlson-Rink, a licensed naturopathic physician and registered midwife, recommends the following diet tips for helping to avoid iron deficiency:
• Eat dark, leafy greens such as kale, bok choy, Swiss chard, spinach.
• Consume dried fruits such as raisins, prunes and apricots.
• Seaweed is a great source of iron, as is blackstrap molasses.
• Eggs contain iron.
• Legumes such as lentils, Kidney, Lima and soy beans also are a great source of iron.
• Eat one portion of lean meat two times/week.
• Whole grain products supply iron and other valuable minerals.
• Vitamin C, found in peppers, Brussels sprouts, broccoli or oranges improves iron absorption, so combine meals with one or more of these items.
Dr. Carlson-Rink also says “a serum ferritin test is the best way to identify iron deficiency. For years, I have recommended Salus Floradix, a liquid iron supplement that is plant-based, so it does not lead to iron overload, and is also additive and preservative free.”
More information can be found online at www.requiredforlife.com or toll-free at 1-888-436-6697.
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