Are eggs a valuable source of iron?
Eggs are a good source of iron, but they are not considered to be high in iron compared to some other dietary sources.
One large egg contains about 0.9 milligrams of iron, which is about 5% of the daily value for iron for most Australian adults.
Can you increase your iron intake by eating eggs?
There are several factors that can affect the body’s ability to absorb iron from the diet. For example, the presence of certain substances, such as calcium and phytates, can inhibit iron absorption, while other substances, such as vitamin C and meat, can enhance iron absorption.
An example of this was published in 1970, proving consuming orange juice with your eggs can drastically increase the iron intake.
You could also cook your eggs using cast iron cookware to help increase your daily iron intake. For fried and scrambled, it’s one of the best ways to cook eggs.
Is iron worth adding to your diet?
About iron in your diet
Iron is an essential nutrient that our bodies need to function properly. It is a component of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. Iron also plays a role in the immune system and helps to regulate cell growth and differentiation.
The two types of dietary iron
There are two types of dietary iron: heme and non-heme. Heme iron, which is found in animal sources such as meat, fish, and poultry, is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron, which is found in plant-based foods and supplements. Eggs are a good source of non-heme iron.
It is important to consume enough iron in the diet to meet the body’s needs. Iron deficiency anemia, which occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce red blood cells, is a common nutritional deficiency that can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. However, it is also possible to consume too much iron, which can lead to iron overload and other health problems.
Should you eat eggs to increase your intake of iron?
Eggs are a good source of iron, but they are not considered to be high in iron compared to some other dietary sources.
And while you can increase your iron intake by combining eggs with other foods or cooking methods, it’s important to consume a varied diet that includes a variety of iron-rich foods to meet the body’s needs for this essential nutrient.
