Iron-rich foods

 Iron-rich foods for low Haemoglobin levels

Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that plays the important role of carrying oxygen throughout the body. To make haemoglobin, cells require iron to build a component called heme. If you do not get enough iron in your diet or your body is not able to absorb iron properly, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells or the cells lack haemoglobin. Low haemoglobin levels can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and other health issues. It is important to consult doctor if you have low-haemoglobin levels. In addition, incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet can help increase your haemoglobin levels.

​Aliv seeds​

Aliv seeds, also known as garden cress seeds or halim seeds, are a nutritional powerhouse when it comes to iron content. These tiny seeds are a rich source of non-heme iron, which is the plant-based form of iron. Aliv seeds contain approximately 11mg of iron per 100grams, making them an excellent addition to your diet to boost haemoglobin levels. In addition to iron, aliv seeds are packed with other nutrients like calcium, folic acid and vitamin C. Folic acid is known to support the production of red blood cells, while vitamin C enhances iron absorption. You can incorporate aliv seeds into your diet by adding them on salads, yogurt or cereal, or by using them in smoothies.

​Pomegranate​

Pomegranate is a delicious fruit that is not only rich in flavour but also in iron. The vitamin C content in pomegranate plays a significant role in enhancing iron absorption. Consuming pomegranate seeds or drinking fresh pomegranate juice can be a tasty way to raise your haemoglobin levels. Additionally, pomegranate is a good source of antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals.

​Spinach​

Spinach is a classic iron-rich food and a staple in many diets. Spinach also contains essential nutrients like folate, which is vital for red blood cell production, and vitamin C to improve iron absorption. Spinach can be consumed through dishes like palak paneer, palak corn, palak chaat, palak soup and added to omelets, and green smoothies.

Eggs

Eggs are a versatile and readily available source of heme iron, which is found in animal products and is easily absorbed by the body. A single large boiled egg contains approximately 1mg of iron. Eggs can be prepared in numerous delicious ways, from scrambled and poached to boiled and fried.

​Oranges and lemons​

While oranges and lemons are not rich sources of iron, they play a vital role in improving iron absorption. These citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based sources. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods in conjunction with iron-rich foods can help optimize your iron intake.