One of the biggest myths is that “red meat” is the superior, or even the only, real source of iron. Proponents neglect to point out the detriment to our health that is caused by consuming animal flesh, such as increased risk of diseases like colon cancer and other cancers; intestinal disorders such as constipation; diabetes; heart disease and stroke, to name a few. We have all heard the warnings from even mainstream non-vegan sources about the dangers of “red meat”. Here is how to get healthy and nonviolent sources of iron from your diet:
Green leafy vegetables such as kale, cabbage and spinach; beans and lentils; pumpkin seeds; millet; and dried fruits such as apricots and dates. Iron is best absorbed with Vitamin C, especially when one is getting iron from purely plant sources, so be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits alongside, to aid iron absorption and get the most out of these foods.
A fantastic way to eat leafy greens is a Green Smoothie. The pureeing of the leaves helps our bodies to digest them quickly, allowing us to absorb the calcium and other nutrients more efficiently, and mixing them with lots of fresh fruit means you are consuming them with Vitamin C also which will aid the Iron absorption even more. Green Smoothie Recipe