low ferritin? - tips

Eat iron-rich or iron enhancing foods

Heme-iron, found in animal products has a higher absorption rate by the body than does non-heme iron, which is found in vegetables. 

A few foods, that are high in heme-iron are: liver, clams, muscles, oysters, chicken & turkey

Some foods that are high in non-heme iron: tofu, cooked beans and lentils, pumpkin seeds,

cooked spinach, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and broccoli

Iron-enhancing foods are those rich in vitamin C which enhances the level of iron absorption by the body. Avoid tea, coffee, and chard as these inhibit iron absorption.

Take 1 Tbsp of blackstrap molasses in the morning and one in the afternoon. Its rich in iron that is quickly absorbed by the body. It will also give you an energy boost.

Snack on raisins and/or figs - not only high in iron, but also high in vitamin C and fibre

Use cast iron skillets or pans for cooking. It releases a small quantity of iron into your food.


Do not take calcium supplements or diary products at least 4 hours before/after taking iron.