Health News
Dealing with iron deficiency
Dec 26, 2011, 3:06 GMT
Berlin - Someone with an iron deficiency should substantially reduce consumption of coffee and black tea.
This is according to Petra Renner-Weber, a member of Germany's Home Economics and Nutrition Science Association.
She says that tannin in the drinks inhibits the absorption of iron. 'About two hours should pass after a meal before drinking coffee or tea,' she added.
Renner-Weber said the body absorbed iron from animal products such as meat and sausage best. When its iron stores are depleted, the body absorbs a lot of iron from food. When stores are well supplied, it takes in little of the mineral.
The home economist and nutritionist advises vegetarians to eat iron-rich vegetables such as beets as well as legumes and whole grains.
She said that vitamin C and organic acids enhanced the absorption of iron from plant foods and so she recommends drinking a glass of orange juice at meals or having fruit salad for dessert.
Iron deficiency, which a doctor can detect with a blood test, is caused by an unbalanced diet or, in women, heavy menstrual periods, Renner-Weber said.
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