20 Iron Rich Foods in India to Increase Haemoglobin

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Humans cannot live without iron, a mineral crucial to their health. The most abundant source of iron in human tissue is the red blood cell. In addition to reducing fatigue, managing iron levels can also help prevent its causes. Several other functions for iron include boosting haemoglobin, aiding in the treatment of anaemia, and enhancing immune function.

An iron overdose is extremely rare. If an individual has more iron in their system than is needed, their body will normally reserve it. Some illnesses may require you to use iron supplements, but most people can obtain all the iron they need from their diet.

 

20 Iron-Rich Foods in India

  • Amount of iron in 100g (Cumin): 66.4mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Sesame seeds): 14.6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Wheat Bran): 10.6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (kidney beans): 8.2mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Cashew): 6.7mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Mung Beans): 6.7mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Oatmeal): 6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Chickpeas): 6.2mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Black Gram Split): 5.14mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Soybean): 5mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Peanuts): 4.6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Pistachio): 3.9mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Chana Roasted): 3.6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Whole wheat flour): 3.6mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Dry Apricots): 2.7mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Spinach): 2.7mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Rajgira): 2.1mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Mushroom): 0.5mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Puffed rice): 0.40mg
  • Amount of iron in 100g (Rice): 0.2mg

 

20 Indian Foods Rich in Iron 

Almost every food we eat in India contains some iron but there are a few foods that contain a high amount of iron. I have listed all the foods that are high in iron below.

1. Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds

Amount of iron in 100g (Cumin): 66.4mg

Consuming cumin helps to maintain energy levels and to prevent fatigue due to iron deficiency. Moreover, cumin seeds contain iron, which plays a role in maintaining heart health. Aside from assisting in digestion, Jeera Water also helps maintain weight by relieving constipation and bloating.

 

2. Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds

Amount of iron in 100g (Sesame seeds): 14.6mg

Dietary fibre, protein, calcium, copper, vitamin B6, vitamin B6, Vitamin B6, vitamin B2 and vitamin B6 are noteworthy nutrients

Cure for Iron Deficiency- Within a small leaf of these wonderful seeds, there is a large amount of iron. Additionally, it treats pale skin and dry, brittle nails. It also helps with fatigue.

Phosphorus and calcium, which are found in sesame seeds, promote bone health and make bones stronger. Dental health is also improved. Inflammation and diabetes are also prevented by it.

 

3. Wheat Bran

Wheat bran

Amount of iron in 100g (Wheat Bran): 10.6mg

Among the important nutrients are fibre, protein, manganese, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Wheat bran has similar iron-rich properties to bran flakes, as discussed in the benefits of bran flakes above. Combats fatigue, shortness of breath, and prevents cravings. Wheat bran also provides additional energy due to its high iron content.

Benefits of Wheat Bran- Wheat bran is high in dietary fibre, which prevents constipation and keeps you full for a long time, preventing cravings. As well as cancer prevention, it may prevent cancers like stomach cancer, breast cancer, and gallbladder cancer.

 

4. Kidney Beans (Rajma Beans)

Rajma beans

Amount of iron in 100g (kidney beans): 8.2mg

Notable Nutrients– Folate, phosphorus, manganese, fibre, and protein

Iron deficiency issues can be prevented by consuming kidney beans regularly. As well as raising haemoglobin levels, it reduces paleness.

Health Benefits- Rajma contains protein and dietary fibre that promote healthy hair and nails, as well as improving your digestive system. Therefore, they are a key component of vegetarian diets aimed at weight loss. Bone health is another benefit of manganese.

 

5. Cashew

Cashew

Amount of iron in 100g (Cashew): 6.7mg

Problems related to iron deficiency are cured by cashew nuts, such as headaches, fatigue, and weakness.

It is said that cashews prevent the formation of gallstones and microbial infections. As well as magnesium being beneficial to bones, cashews contain vitamin E.

 

6. Mung Beans

Mung beans

Amount of iron in 100g (Mung Beans): 6.7mg

Nutrients to Look for: High Protein and Dietary Fibre, Folate, Thiamine, Manganese

Mung beans are vital in the cure of iron deficiency issues, as they lower fatigue levels and provide energy levels throughout the day. Furthermore, sprout mung salads are low-calorie nutritional sources, which is ideal for people on a diet.

 

7. Oatmeal

Oatmeal

Amount of iron in 100g (Oatmeal): 6mg

Protein, Dietary Fibre, and Magnesium are notable nutrients

Oatmeal iron aids in increasing red blood cells production along with haemoglobin production, preventing iron deficiency issues. In addition to preventing fatigue and nausea, it treats anaemia.

Oatmeal contains dietary fibres, which keep you full for a long time, maintains weight, lowers blood sugar levels, and improves digestion, so it is highly recommended by the U.S. USDA. Cancer and heart diseases can both be prevented with zinc.

 

8. Chole (Chickpeas)

Chole

Amount of iron in 100g (Chickpeas): 6.2mg

Notable Nutrients– Protein, Fibre, Folate, Copper, and Phosphorus

Iron Deficiency Issues Cure- Chickpeas traditionally help to treat anaemia by reducing its symptoms and reducing problems such as paleness, headaches, soreness of the mouth, and strange cravings caused by iron deficiency.

Dietary fibre is beneficial for health in a variety of ways, including lowering cholesterol levels, promoting weight loss, and improving digestion.

 

9. Urad (Black Gram Split )

Urad

Amount of iron in 100g (Black Gram Split ): 5.14mg

Nutrients to Look for: High Protein and Dietary Fibre, Folate, Thiamine, Manganese

Haemoglobin Count Increased and Anaemia Prevented- Black gram helps in increasing haemoglobin count and preventing anaemia altogether. Additionally, it increases energy levels, which can help combat fatigue and weakness caused by an iron deficiency.

 

10. Soya-bean

Soya-bean

Amount of iron in 100g (Soybean): 5mg

Contains high fibre, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin K, iron, manganese, and riboflavin.

A soybean diet cures iron-deficiency issues by boosting your energy, lowering fatigue levels, and relieving dizziness. Additionally, it improves your energy and physical activity.

Among vegetarians, soybeans ranked as one of the top iron-rich foods according to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

A vegetarian food rich in protein and iron, soybeans helps you keep full and gain lean muscle mass quickly. Your body will tone and lose weight this way. The hair and nails are healthier as a result.

 

11. Peanuts

Peanuts

Amount of iron in 100g (Peanuts): 4.6mg

Important nutrients include protein, copper, niacin, folic acid, omega-6 fatty acids, and ferrous sulphate

Problems caused by iron deficiency are cured – Peanuts promote red blood cell production, which prevents paleness caused by anaemia.

Peanuts have a high protein content with high-fat content. Therefore, peanuts should be consumed in moderation. Aside from its anti-cancer properties, it also has antioxidant properties.

A single tablespoon of peanut butter contains around 9.4 grams of protein, which accounts for 19.0% of a day’s protein intake. Peanut butter has been used as a muscle-building protein for centuries.

 

12. Pistachio

Pistachio

Amount of iron in 100g (Pistachio): 3.9mg

Pistachios relieve iron deficiency issues, including nausea, fatigue, and brittle nails.

The consumption of roasted Pistachios can prevent anaemia and increase haemoglobin count, according to a renowned sports nutritionist and dietician. Additionally, it increases energy levels, which can help combat fatigue and weakness caused by an iron deficiency.

Pistachios prevents heart disease and improves digestion. In addition to boosting energy levels, this healthy snack also helps maintain weight.

 

13. Chana Roasted

Chana roasted

Amount of iron in 100g (Chana Roasted): 3.6mg

Notable Nutrients– Fibre content in roasted Protein, Dietary Fibre, Manganese, Folate, Copper

The consumption of roasted Chana can prevent anaemia and increase haemoglobin count, according to a renowned sports nutritionist and dietician. Additionally, it increases energy levels, which can help combat fatigue and weakness caused by an iron deficiency.

Chana prevents heart disease and improves digestion. In addition to boosting energy levels, this healthy snack also helps maintain weight.

 

14. Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour

Amount of iron in 100g (Whole wheat flour): 3.6mg

Dietary Fibre, Protein, Manganese, Selenium, and Phosphorus are all essential nutrients.

The iron content of whole wheat flour helps in reducing cravings and shortness of breath caused by iron deficiency. Additionally, it offers almost all your daily recommended intake, which helps reduce fatigue, headaches, and dizziness.

Iron-rich foods are the main source of nutrition for Indians. Magnesium is found in large amounts in wheat flour, which can assist in preventing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, it reduces chronic inflammation, prevents gallstone formation, and improves metabolism.

 

15. Dry Apricots

Dry apricots

Amount of iron in 100g (Dry Apricots): 2.7mg

Dietary fibre, vitamin A, vitamin E, potassium, and protein are notable nutrients

Deficiencies in iron are solved with dried apricots- When iron content in dried fruits as compared to raw fruits, dried apricots came in second. In addition to increasing haemoglobin levels, dried apricots reduce skin pallor and hair brittleness.

Dry apricots contain potassium, which lowers hypertension and regulates blood pressure. To maintain healthy eyes, vitamin A is necessary.

 

16. Spinach

spinach

Amount of iron in 100g (Spinach): 2.7mg

A notable list of nutrients is Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Folate, Vitamin C, and Dietary Fibre.

USDA Data reveals that frozen and chopped spinach nor whole-leaf spinach have the same amount of iron as raw, fresh spinach leaves. Women during pregnancy are advised to consume spinach because of its iron content which treats paleness, headaches, and cravings.

Benefits: It’s one of the best foods to lose weight.  Additionally, spinach is rich in Vitamin A. Vitamin A promotes healthy skin, hair, and prevents certain eye disorders in the elderly. Additionally, vitamin K content keeps bones healthy and lowers blood pressure.

 

17. Ram dana (Rajgira) Amaranth

Ram dana (Rajgiri) Amaranth

Amount of iron in 100g (Rajgira): 2.1mg

Dietary fibre, zinc, vitamin B6, manganese, magnesium, protein, and manganese are important nutrients.

Amaranth treats iron deficiencies – Amaranth gives a lot of energy to anaemic patients since it has an iron content that reduces fatigue, weakness, and fatigue.

Researchers have tested the phytochemical compounds in amaranth seeds which have been found to reduce the risk of cancer. Also, the amaranth oil may prevent cardiovascular disease and can be used as a treatment.

 

18. Mushroom

mushroom

Amount of iron in 100g (Mushroom): 0.5mg

Notable Nutrients– Pantothenic acid, copper, riboflavin, riboflavin, and selenium

The iron content of oyster mushrooms is twice that of shiitakes and Portobello mushrooms, for example. In addition to helping prevent fatigue, nausea and headaches caused by iron deficiency, mushrooms contain iron.

Health Benefits- The iron content of this vegetable is also high. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps prevent certain types of cancer as well as release internal toxins from the body. Additionally, vitamins B2 and B3 promote healthy red blood cells and promote digestive and nervous system function.

 

19. Puffed Rice

Amount of iron in 100g (Puffed rice): 0.40mg

Vitamin B-6, protein, magnesium, potassium, and fibre are important nutrients.

Having brittle nails is relieved by the iron content of puffed rice, which strengthens them and alleviates iron deficiency issues. Additionally, you can strengthen your teeth and bones.

Puffed rice’s light texture and volume can provide health benefits by supporting digestion. Dietary fibre also promotes a feeling of fullness and prevents constipation. In addition, puffed rice contains antioxidants that boost the immune system.

 

20. (White) Rice

Rice

Amount of iron in 100g (Rice): 0.2mg

Iron Deficiency Issues Resolved- White rice helps restore in addition, it helps prevent Alzheimer’s. iron levels that are deficient in the body can cause anxiety, insomnia, cold feet, and various infections that result from iron deficiencies.

Another healthy Indian food that contains iron. Nutrition present in white rice contributes to a healthier metabolism as well as an improved immune system overall.

 

 

Health benefits of Iron:

1. Anaemia treatment

Iron helps treat anaemia, one of the world’s most prevalent nutritional deficiencies. Anaemia is caused by low haemoglobin levels. A person with anaemia may experience fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and overall feeling of weakness and sickness.

 

2. Enhances Haemoglobin

In the body, iron is essential for the formation of haemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. The loss of blood occurs in many ways, including when one is injured. Therefore, an additional supply of haemoglobin is necessary. A woman’s menstrual cycle causes her to lose blood each month, and as a result, she may be more susceptible to anaemia.

 

3. Boosts energy and combats fatigue

Both men and women may benefit from iron when they suffer from unexplained fatigue. A low iron level can still make one feel fatigued, even if they are not anaemic. The chances of women experiencing this are higher during their reproductive years.

There is more to fatigue due to iron deficiency than just a normal amount of sleepiness. People experience fatigue that affects their daily routine, and activities can become exhausting and unpleasant as a result.

You can raise your iron levels by taking iron-rich foods and supplements. This can reduce feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. Cast iron cooking can also contribute to a healthier diet.

 

4. Boosts endurance of muscles

Metabolic impairment is associated with low iron levels in muscles. For muscle contractions and endurance, adequate iron levels are essential. (Anaemia can cause weakness in muscles.)

Low iron levels also contribute to fatigue. Deficiency in iron leads to inflammation of the muscles. Haemoglobin rich in iron reduces pain by repairing tissue damage.

 

5. Immune booster

The immune system is strengthened by iron. A healthy body produces haemoglobin, which supplies oxygen to damaged tissues, organs, and cells and aids the fight against disease and infection. The immune system and healing process are hampered by low iron status.

 

6. Concentration is improved

Iron deficiency reduces cognitive function. When blood iron levels drop, concentration and attentiveness are affected almost immediately. Concentration and mental performance can be enhanced by restoring iron levels to a normal range.

 

7. Bruising is reduced

Bruising is often caused by a low iron status or an actual iron deficiency. Blood clots are controlled by platelets, which are produced and function by haemoglobin. The presence of frequent bruising suggests that the internal clotting process isn’t functioning correctly. Supplementing iron can help if low iron causes frequent bruising.

 

8. Ensures a good night’s sleep

Low iron stores are linked to sleep issues, such as restless sleep and sleep apnea, according to a study published in 2015. Iron therapy has been found to improve restless sleep in children with autism from a 2007 study.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7407189/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6313590/

 

Potential side effects

Iron supplements are most often associated with an upset stomach. Some forms of iron are associated with constipation as a side effect. In most healthy adults, iron overload in the diet is unlikely. A genetic disorder may increase a person’s ability to absorb iron from food.

Free radicals can be created from iron overload, causing organs and tissues to become damaged. This increases the risk of certain cancers.

It is possible to suffer nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort if you take high doses of iron supplements. Overdoses of iron can cause internal bleeding, seizures, comas, and even death.

Certain medications, such as those used for the treatment of restless leg syndrome and thyroid disorders, may be less effective when taken with iron supplements. In a clinical setting, reflux medication reduces the amount of iron absorbed from food or supplements. Taking prescription medications may require you to take iron supplements, so speak with your doctor about this.

 

Preparation and administration

Most adults benefit from oral iron supplementation at a dose of 8 to 27 milligrams (mg). In pregnancy and for iron-deficient people, higher doses are typically prescribed. Food should be consumed with iron supplements.

 

Causes of iron deficiency

You might notice that your diet is inadequate in iron if you do not eat enough of it each day. A major deficiency of iron in your diet is the primary cause or reason for iron deficiency. Women generally lose a great deal of blood during their menstrual cycle, which may be another reason.

As a result, your body’s iron content could drop. A woman’s pregnancy also requires her offspring to absorb a great deal of iron. Perhaps your body is unable to absorb iron, which is another important factor. Small intestinal problems are usually responsible for this.

The lack of iron occurs if you have celiac disease or any other similar condition.

 

Why do women require more iron?

The number of iron men needs in a day is much less than the amount a woman needs, which is 18 mg per day. During menstruation, a woman loses a large amount of blood, which can affect the body’s overall iron level.

Women also need it because of pregnancy stages. The fact that iron is necessary for your body and brain to function well is also important.

 

Possible problems due to iron deficiency

No matter how much you eat or how well you sleep, you feel tired all the time. It is also possible that you will face the problem of anaemia, which is a disease caused by iron deficiency, in which your haemoglobin counts decrease, which is extremely low.

A deficit in iron can also result in anxiety, cold hands and feet, strange cravings, mouth ulcers, weak nails, hair loss, damaged skin and hair, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Aside from gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, you can also suffer from stomach ulcers. You could suffer from heart failure if it is too serious. Consuming the daily recommended iron intake is therefore important.

 

Getting to the Bottom Line

Several different foods contain iron, including many plant foods. The plant foods listed in this article not only provide a good source of iron but also contain a wide variety of other nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. Therefore, including them in your diet will help meet your iron needs as well as improve your overall health.

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