Which Food To Eat To Increase Ferritin In The Body?

Ferritin is a protein located inside your cells that stores iron so it can be used by your body later. The amount of ferritin in your blood indicates how much iron is stored in your body. Iron is important in the creation of hemoglobin, which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen, which is then transported through the body. Iron is also important for cell creation, maintaining the central nervous system and the immune system. Eating iron-rich food is important so ferritin can store adequate amounts of iron for later use.

Meat , Poultry and Sea Food

One of the best ways to get your iron is by eating various types of meat. These include beef, lamb, veal and pork in addition to organ meats like liver, kidney and hearts. Poultry is also a good source of iron. Examples include chicken, duck and turkey. Dark poultry meat contains the most iron. As an alternative to meat and poultry, sea food is a low-fat, iron-containing food. Examples include mackerel, dried cod, haddock, tuna, shrimp, sardines, oysters, clams and scallops.

Vegetables and Fruits

Another reason to get enough fruits and vegetables is that many contain iron. Iron-rich vegetables include spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, string beans, kale, chard and collards. Some iron-containing fruits and juices are watermelon, strawberries and prune juice. You can also snack on iron-containing dried fruits at any time and any location. Examples are prunes, dried apricots, dried peaches, dates, figs and raisins.

Legumes

Legumes are a type of plant that grows seeds that are lined up in pods. Iron-containing legumes include lima beans and green peas. Pinto beans, back-eyed peas and canned baked beans also contain iron.

Other Foods

Other foods that contain iron include eggs, corn syrup, maple syrup and molasses. There are also plenty of iron-enriched foods, which means iron is added during processing. Some of these foods include bread, pasta and rice. In addition, many breakfast cereals are iron-fortified. Read nutrition labels on the foods you purchase to determine if they contain iron.

Warning

If you don't eat any type of meat or poultry, you need to ensure your are getting plenty of other iron-containing foods in your diet so you don't become iron-deficient. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia that requires medical intervention. Seek the advice of a doctor or nutritionist to ensure your diet is adequate and to determine if you need iron supplements.