Posted by seldomseen on November 17, 2008, at 12:26:54
In reply to Is anyone here a vegetarian?, posted by Angela2 on November 17, 2008, at 10:16:07
I really wouldn't worry too much about that. The iron in vegetables in what is termed non-heme iron and is much less readily absorbed than heme iron that is found in meats.
However, it is absorbed. In fact, the addition of white wine, broccoli, almost all fruits etc.. can help non-heme iron be absorbed.
The best sources for non-heme iron in my opinion are enriched breakfast cereals, and an odd little concoction called blackstrap molasses. Where I'm from pregnant women *still* eat blackstrap molasses to "keep their blood up" (so cute). It can be found in most organic grocers and health food stores. Lentils and pumpkin seeds are good iron sources.
The key when you are a vegetarian is to eat a variety of foods, or you can opt for a supplement (pre-natal vitamins are a good one). However, iron supplements kill my stomach, so be forewarned.
And, no i'm not a vegetarian, I just happen to kow a lot about iron. Strange isn't it.
Seldom
poster:seldomseen
thread:863575
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20081031/msgs/863588.html