Iron is an essential mineral that the human body needs for maintaining healthy blood, and for building muscles. Since the body does not produce iron on its own, one needs to make sure a natural iron source is part of their daily diet. If the body is not provided with sufficient iron, a condition called anemia can develop, causing one to feel fatigued and weak, and leaving them susceptible to other illnesses and diseases.
What Is Iron's Role in the Body?
Iron plays a significant role in the production of blood cells in the body. The mineral is required in order to make the oxygen-carrying proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin.
Iron deficiency is one of the leading nutritional disorders in the world, with approximately 80% of the global population being deficient in the mineral to some degree. Nearly one-third of all of the people in the world suffer from iron deficiency anemia.
Dietary Sources of Iron
When one thinks about natural iron sources, beef often comes to mind first. But, while red meat is certainly one of the most common sources of iron, there are other, better sources out there. Some dietary sources of iron include:
- Clams
- Cold cereals (whole grain or fortified)
- Oysters
- Soybeans
- Pumpkin seeds
- Organ meats (heart, liver, kidneys)
- White beans
- Lentils
- Blackstrap molasses
- Spinach
- Shrimp
- Swiss chard
- Dark chocolate (cocoa)
- Tofu
Spirulina: A Top Natural Iron Source
Spirulina is a blue-green microalgae that is recognized as being an incredible natural source for bio-available iron. In fact, Hawaiian Spirulina is far superior to other brands in many nutrients, including iron, and, in fact, has 3,900% more iron than spinach, with just a teaspoon offering a full 7mg of iron. That's more than a ½ cup of cooked soybeans, 1oz. of pumpkin seeds, ½ cup of cooked spinach, and 3oz. of lentils. Research shows that spirulina helps improve the quality of the blood, protects the liver and kidneys, and helps prevent anemia.
Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica® makes it easy to ensure that a person is getting their necessary daily allotment of iron in their diet. This unique strain of the micro-algae is grown and cultivated on the Kona coast of Hawaii in a BioSecure Zone. Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica® is an all-natural, 100% vegetarian, and Non-GMO Project Verified. Packed with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and protein, spirulina is one of the most nutrient-rich substances on the planet.
Learn more about nature's most nutrient-rich superfood or about our Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica® products.