When there are not enough healthy red blood cells in the body, the result is anemia. This condition has many causes, according to the National Anemia Action Council. If you have iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may prescribe iron pills and/or recommend an increase in your dietary iron. Always consult your physician before using diet to treat a serious health condition. If your doctor tells you to increase iron in your diet, there are certain foods you should put on your grocery list.
Animal Foods
Animal food sources will help you add iron to your diet. Dark meat and animal organ meat contain the most iron. Eggs are also high in iron. Lean meats that are lower in fat are better for your heart and cholesterol levels. These include chicken breast, fish, turkey and shrimp. Animal sources of protein contain "heme iron," which has its own hemoglobin, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.
Fortified Products
Some foods are fortified with iron. These are "non-heme" sources of iron, because they did not originally contain hemoglobin. Fortified oatmeal and cereals can contain up to 18 mg per serving, depending on the product. Enriched white bread is also sold at the grocery store. If you have iron deficiency anemia, read the labels of your breakfast products, and buy more fortified products.
Plant Sources of Iron
Beans, lentils and peas contain iron. Soybeans have more iron than kidney beans and lentils. Beans are also a good source of protein, and they are easy to cook and are inexpensive. Fresh or frozen spinach also contains iron, as do raisins and prunes.
Nuts
Nuts are also a source of iron. If you are not allergic, add cashews or peanuts at snack time. Half a cup of walnuts contains 3.75 mg of iron, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This is more iron than three ounces of ground beef, which contains 3 grams.
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