6 Iron Rich Vegetables

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Remember when your mom told you to eat your green vegetables? Turns out she was right all along as green leafy vegetables are rich in iron! Iron is an essential nutrient that plays an important role in red blood cells. They make up the important part of hemoglobin which helps the red blood cells in carrying oxygen all throughout your body. The lack of iron means that you are not receiving enough oxygen in your body and can eventually lead to iron deficiency anemia. So in order to avoid that, it is important that you eat vegetables rich in iron. Not only the green leafy ones but a whole lot of other options to choose from too! To know what they are, here are some of the best vegetables that you can eat that are rich in iron. Check it out!

1. Brussels sprouts

Sure they smell funky but Brussels sprouts are one of the healthiest vegetables that you can eat. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and folate but most importantly, they are rich in iron. Eating Brussels sprouts can prevent you from fatigue and other symptoms that may cause iron deficiency. A serving of this vegetable contains about 28 calories and 0.9 milligrams of iron (1/2 cup).

2. Arugula

Arugula may not be a popular vegetable but it contains a good amount of iron. Including this vegetable in your diet can improve the number of red blood cells in your body. It is best used as a pizza topping or sautéed with other dishes. Half a cup of this vegetable contains 3 calories and 0.146 mg of iron.

3. Collard greens

Collard greens contains high amount of calcium, vitamins A and other cancer-fighting compounds. This dark leafy vegetable is also high in Vitamin C and iron. A cup of collard greens contains about 2.2 milligrams of iron and 11 calories.

4. Broccoli

Perhaps one of the most popular vegetables, broccoli is packed with iron inhibitors which mean that they help your body absorb iron. They also contain Vitamin C and fiber. Half a cup of broccoli contains about 0.3 milligrams of iron and 15 calories.

5. Kale

If you want to go on a diet and want something rich in iron, kale is your best answer. Kale is a fat-free food that provides your body with calories and nutrients. It is also rich in iron which helps in fighting anemia and fatigue. A cup of kale contains about 1.1 mg of iron and 1.3 calories.

6. Spinach

Spinach is another great source of iron. It is considered to be the top of super foods that you should eat. It is a good source of iron and is loaded with Vitamin C too. Spinach can be eaten raw or cooked but to get all the iron you need, spinach is best when it is cooked. A cup of spinach contains about 6.4 milligrams of iron and 41 calories.

Now that you know which vegetable contains the best source of iron, go ahead and take your pick! Although all of these contain iron, the ones that will work best for you is definitely your choice. Either way you get the right amount of iron you need, so enjoy!