Iron out the details: easy ways to naturally boost your iron intake, improve your health

IRON is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in our health, contributing to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin, facilitating oxygen transport and helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue.

- ALYSSIA BIRJALAL

During a recent interview, Vitabiotics, a vitamin company, spoke with nutritionist Lucia Stansbie, who offered insightful and simple methods for increasing iron levels naturally.

One of Stansbie's key recommendations is to enhance the absorption of iron from food by pairing it with vitamin C-rich items.

According to research, vitamin C can increase iron absorption by storing plant-based iron in a form that your body can easily absorb.

This is both a simple and effective way for those looking to safeguard their recommended iron intake. She shares that herbs are also surprisingly rich in iron.

Offering one of her favourite tips, she says, "Couple iron-rich foods, especially plant-based options like spinach, chickpeas or tofu, with sources of vitamin C. Think raw bell peppers or a splash of lemon juice over your salad.

"Research shows that vitamin C can convert plant-based iron into a more absorbable form for the body, making this a simple yet effective strategy."