1. Seeing Red
Meats with the highest levels of iron, unfortunately, are also those highest in cholesterol--red meat and organ meats. While you can enjoy a few servings of red meat each week and the occasional serving of organ meat, they should not be your sole means of increasing iron in your diet. When selecting red meat and organ meat, choose meats that help treat anemia but do not risk your health in other ways by selecting lean cuts, removing as much fat as possible and broiling or baking instead of frying. Also, it is important to remember that a single serving of red meat is only 4 oz., so don't go overboard with a 12-oz. T-bone or a double bacon cheeseburger in an attempt to get your daily dose of iron. There are plenty of other meat sources of iron which are far more healthy.
2. Living Light, Choosing Dark
Poultry is a great alternative to red meat and organ meat when it comes to treating anemia with meats. While poultry is lower in iron, it is also lower in cholesterol, which means it can be enjoyed as often as everyday without risking your health and heart. While we are told that the lighter the meat the healthier it is for your body, the rule changes slightly for anemic, as darker meat contains higher concentrations of iron. If you have high cholesterol or other dietary concerns, you can still get a good supply of iron from white meat; however, if possible, go for the darker cuts.
3. All the Little Fishes in the Deep Blue Sea
Fish is by far your best bet when choosing meats for an anemic diet. Fish has the lowest cholesterol content of any meat and also contains the essential fatty acids omega 3 and omega 6 which benefits your health in many ways, mainly by boosting heart and cardiovascular health. Try to select the freshest fish and seafoods as possible, instead of canned or frozen fish, enjoying a healthy meal with fish as the main entree at least 3 times a week. The biggest concern with adding fish to your diet is the presence of heavy metals, so try to select a nice balance of freshwater and marine fish, enjoying bottom feeder fish, such as bass and salmon, only occasionally.
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