Foods To Avoid For Iron Deficiency

Tea And Coffee

Although they’re both delicious and provide several health benefits, women dealing with an iron deficiency should avoid consuming a lot of tea and coffee. This is for 2 major reasons: caffeine and tannins. Tannins are found in black tea as well as green tea. Caffeine is found in both coffee and all kinds of tea, except for herbal and rooibos teas.

Both of these substances have been linked to reduced iron absorption. They don’t affect those with healthy iron levels. However, for those who are already dealing with a lack of iron need all the help they can get to increase their absorption! Minimal caffeine consumption is ideal, so people should look to herbal teas for a warm and comforting drink.

Red Wine

Although a glass of red wine with dinner sounds tempting, it’s not worth it for women with an iron deficiency. Why? Red wine contains a high amount of resveratrol! This compound has antioxidant properties and has even been said to prevent cancer when consumed in moderation. However, resveratrol isn’t helpful for an iron deficiency.

Yet again, this is another serious iron inhibitor! It lessens the iron absorbed from both supplements as well as food. Since dinners are a prime opportunity to consume iron-rich foods, a glass of red with the meal isn’t good. Save the red wine for after the iron deficiency is no longer an issue!