It is often suggested that you increase iron in your diet
before surgery. Increased iron helps to build healthy blood
cells and gives you energy. A diet low in Iron may
result in anemia and lack of energy.
Iron in your diet
- Best Sources of Iron
- Liver, any kind
- Pork loin
- Oysters
- Clams
- Sardines
- Molasses
- Raisin bran
Good Sources of Iron
- Lean beef
- Shrimp
- Tuna
- Raisins
- Prunes
- Dried apricots
- Figs
- Kidney beans
- Pinto beans
- Navy beans
- Lentils
- Split green peas
- Enriched cereals
- Enriched macaroni
- Spinach
- Greens
- Broccoli
- Lima beans
- Avocado
Fair Sources of Iron
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Salmon
- Haddock
- Cod
- Tofu
- Sesame seeds
- Nuts
- Peanut butter
- Eggs
- Strawberry
- Banana
- Raspberries
- Blueberries
- Tomatoes
** Vitamin C helps your body
absorb Iron from food. You should include foods high in
Vitamin C with the above iron containing foods.
Foods high in Vitamin C:
Oranges, Grapefruit, Lemon, Cantaloupe, Pineapple,
Strawberries, Raspberries, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Spinach,
Kale, Asparagus, Tomatoes, Potatoes, Sweet potatoes
** Cooking in iron skillets
and pans adds small amounts of iron to food.
** Caffeinated beverages and
dairy products should be avoided at the times one is taking
