Iron is an important nutrient for growth and overall development of the body. As per the World Health Organization, iron is an essential element with important functions such as oxygen transport, DNA synthesis and muscle metabolism.

Iron is especially important for our body when the body is growing or transforming. That is why having adequate iron levels is of utmost important in children and pregnant women.

Deficiency of iron can cause anaemia, which means a dip in your haemoglobin levels. As per the WHO statistics, 33 per cent of non-pregnant women, 40 per cent pregnant women and 42 per cent of children suffer from anaemia worldwide. Common symptoms of anaemia: Feeling fatigued easily Rapid heartbeat Shortness of breath and headache Difficulty in concentrating Pale skin and dizziness Insomnia Leg cramps

The World Health Organization recommends a few dietary tips and other tricks to combat iron deficiency.

Here are 5 foods you must include in your diet to fight iron deficiency

Meat Poultry and fish are extremely rich in iron. Other meats rich in iron include salmon and tuna. Include either of these in your diet 2-3 times a week to fight iron deficiency.

Eggs

Eggs are a rich source of protein, iron and vitamins. 100 grams egg contains around 1.2 mg of iron in it.

Legumes If you are a vegetarian, lentils are a prime source of iron for you. Have it in the form of salad or dal, a single cup of lentils has around 6.6 milligrams of iron.

Green leafy vegetables We all know eating greens is a way of healthy living. Spinach, one of the most common and favorite green vegetables, is one of the best sources of iron. 100 grams of spinach has around 2.7 mg of iron. Other veggies rich in iron are kale and peas.

Nuts and seeds Apart from serving as a healthy snack, seeds and nuts are also packed in iron.100 grams of mix nuts lightly roasted in salt and oil have around 2.6 mg of iron. Tip to increase iron absorption in the body As per the WHO, having citrus fruits is an integral part in preventing iron deficiency.

Vitamin C helps in the better absorption of the iron in the body.

Avoid It is said that people suffering from iron deficiency should avoid having tea or coffee along with their meals as that can inhibit the absorption of iron in the body.

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Source: Times of india