Eat an iron-rich dinner with heme iron sources such as red meat, liver, dark poultry meat, or shellfish
Include non-heme iron foods such as lentils, beans, tofu, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and fortified cereals
Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources such as oranges, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, or tomatoes
Avoid tea, coffee, and cocoa with meals
Avoid calcium-rich foods and supplements at the same time as iron-rich meals
Take an iron supplement only if prescribed or recommended by a healthcare professional
Take the supplement with vitamin C or orange juice if tolerated
Avoid taking iron with antacids, calcium, magnesium, or zinc at the same time
Cook with cast iron cookware
Stay hydrated and rest
Seek urgent medical care if there is severe weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or black stools