Foods Rich in Iron For Colon Health

Iron plays a very important role in maintaining the overall health of an individual. It ensures proper functioning of the red blood cells because it is an integral part of hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying molecule of the body. Iron is also essential for proper functioning of several enzymes and for maintaining a healthy immune system. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, learning difficulties in children, fatigue, sleep problems, breathlessness and so on. The best way to ensure that your body gets the iron it needs is to eat iron rich foods.

There are two kinds of dietary iron- heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron has more bioavailability i.e. it is easily utilized and absorbed by the body. It is found in animal sources whereas non-heme iron, which has lesser bioavailability, is found in plants. Rich sources of heme iron include clams, liver, oysters, beef, shrimp, sardines, turkey etc. Foods rich in non-heme iron include iron fortified cereals, asparagus, beans, lentils, potatoes, spinach, broccoli, turnip, kale, cabbage etc. Other foods rich in iron are tofu, tuna, barley, almonds, cashews, walnuts, lima beans, kidney beans, gingerbread, chocolate, black treacle, dates, prunes, figs, eggs etc.

Some factors enhance the absorption of iron by the body whereas others retard iron absorption. Vitamin C found in fruits like orange, grapefruit, cantaloupe, strawberries etc has been known to increase iron absorption. Tomato, potato, red and green pepper, white wine and such foods also increase iron absorption. Foods like soy, whole grains, beet, coffee and tea decrease iron absorption and should be used sparingly.