What is Iron?
Iron is a vital mineral that is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It also plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including energy production, DNA synthesis, and immune function.
Benefits of Iron
Oxygen Transport: Essential for the production of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood.
Energy Production: Involved in the production of ATP, the body's primary energy source.
Immune Function: Supports the immune system by promoting the growth and differentiation of immune cells.
Cognitive Function: Important for brain health and cognitive development.
Foods High in Iron
Here are some foods rich in Iron along with their approximate Iron content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) they provide. The DRV for Iron is approximately 8 mg for men and 18 mg for women.
Top Sources of Iron for Carnivores
Liver (Beef, Chicken, etc.)
Iron content: 9.0 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 113% for men, 50% for women
Liver is one of the richest sources of heme iron.
Oysters
Iron content: 7.0 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 88% for men, 39% for women
Oysters are an excellent source of iron.
Ground Beef
Iron content: 2.7 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 34% for men, 15% for women
Ground beef provides a significant amount of iron.
Turkey
Iron content: 1.4 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 18% for men, 8% for women
Turkey offers a moderate amount of iron.
Chicken Breast
Iron content: 1.1 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 14% for men, 6% for women
Chicken breast provides a small but notable amount of iron.
Top Sources of Iron for Vegans
Tofu
Iron content: 5.4 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 68% for men, 30% for women
Tofu is an excellent source of iron for vegans.
Lentils
Iron content: 3.3 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 41% for men, 18% for women
Lentils are a great plant-based source of non-heme iron.
Chickpeas
Iron content: 2.9 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 36% for men, 16% for women
Chickpeas provide a good amount of iron.
Spinach
Iron content: 2.7 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 34% for men, 15% for women
Spinach is rich in iron and other essential nutrients.
Quinoa
Iron content: 1.5 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 19% for men, 8% for women
Quinoa is a nutritious grain that contains iron.