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It was three years ago that I was told I have anaemia. On the spectrum of medical problems, I could have it A LOT worse. But being low in Iron is an actual pain, and for years it was detrimental to my overall health. Symptoms can include anything and everything between shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, chest pain, insomnia, leg cramps, weakness, and fatigue. So basically- #notafuntime.
I was prescribed Iron supplements by my doctor, and she said I should incorporate more Iron into my diet. This got me researching into what I should be eating more of. So… read on for some of my best IRON-spiration. You may find you’ll pick up many other vitamins and nutrients along the way…
Beef
This is an obvious one, but beef is so versatile! Pick up a Deluxe Scotch Beef rump steak from Lidl and then grill it on a BBQ. Or, you could stick some beef in a stew or have a taco night with your mates! Beef’s not only high in Iron, but also Zinc, Vitamin B12 and Selenium. So there. Tell your mum you ARE eating healthily.
Seafood
Think clams, mussels and prawns. These sea-creatures are packed with so much goodness. Run down to Lidl, grab some MSC mussels, (which come in their very own sauce,) and whip up a romantic seafood marinara for you and your S.O. Your bodies will be swimming in Iron, Protein, Zinc, Omega-3 folic acid and Vitamin A. All very, very good. Did I mention oysters are an aphrodisiac?
Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables are pretty much the healthiest thing you can put into your body. They’re rich in Iron, but also ideal for weight management as they are typically low in calories. They’re also high in Fibre, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Potassium and Magnesium. Although, don’t feel like you have to eat spinach salads every day. Load some British kale from Lidl into the blender with some berries for a jealousy-inducing smoothie as you walk into work. YUMMMM.
Legumes
Lentils, Chickpeas and beans, oh my. Here’s where you can get creative with curries. These little beauties are packed with Protein, Fibre, Calcium, Complex Carbohydrates and… Iron! For recipes that are a touch more summery, hit up Lidl for everything on your grocery list and try making a lentil and bean salad with lemon, or have a go at making your own hummus!
Dried Fruits
Like many other foods that are high in Iron; dried fruits are also high in Fibre and Potassium. They’re extremely rich in antioxidants too! If you’re buying little packets of dried fruits for snacks throughout the day, make sure you read the packet for added sweeteners.
So you’re an anaemic vegetarian?
Never fear! Tofu is actually a rich source of Iron. Head down to Lidl for some high-quality tofu and go nuts with the curries, stir-fry’s and wraps. For some extra veggie inspiration, try frying up some Chinese noodles with spinach, tofu & hazelnuts. Don’t forget the soy sauce!
Extra tip:
Feel good about the food you buy by making responsible choices. Did you know that Lidl’s Deluxe Scotch Beef products are born and reared on Scottish farms assured by Quality Meat Scotland for their high standards, animal welfare and exceptional quality? Lidl’s fresh seasonal British fruit and veg also carried the Red Tractor label, which ensures it meets strict food safety and environmental standards. Furthermore, all of their wild caught fish are MSC certified.