What is Iron?

What is Iron? Iron is a mineral, and its main purpose is to carry oxygen in the hemoglobin of red blood cells throughout the body so cells can produce energy. It is crucial to have iron so that your body can create these healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency is common in bariatric patients undergoing Gastric Bypass surgery due to the altered gastrointestinal tract which can interrupt the normal creation of red blood cells causing symptoms of fatigue, dizziness and weakness. Other symptoms can include, but not limited to: pale skin and fingernails, headache, restless legs, and low body temperature (feeling cold). To improve the absorption of iron, eat foods rich in Vitamin C which is found in produce, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers or berries. We can absorb three times more iron from animal sources than from plants. If you are mindful to eat a variety of foods, you will most likely consume enough iron daily. Best Meat Sources:

SOURCE	SERVING SIZE	mg of Iron
Lean beef	3oz	3mg
Oysters	3oz	24mg
Chicken (dark meat)	3oz	1mg
Turkey (dark meat)	3oz	2mg

Best Plant Sources:

SOURCE	SERVING SIZE	mg of Iron
Beans and Lentils	3.5oz	3-7mg
Tofu	3.5oz	3mg
Sweet potatoes	1 cup of chunks	2mg
Cashews	1oz	2mg
Dark leafy greens (spinach) cooked	½ cup	3mg
Fortified breakfast cereals	Check nutrition label	Check nutrition label
Whole-grain and enriched breads	Check nutrition label	Check nutrition label

Because iron’s important role in our bodies, the following are recommendations for daily supplementation: Men and Women (no longer having menstrual cycle): 18mg Men (prone to anemia) and Women (prone to anemia or menstruating women): 45mg See our online store for Bariatric Advantage and Bariatric Fusion iron options at MyBariatricSolutions.com and ask one of our dietitians if you have questions.

What is Iron?

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