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If you're watching your weight, this list of 40 low-carb foods will help you stay in great shape. Add them to your shopping list!

People who watch their figure know that they are on the very edge of the twilight zone. On the one hand, carbohydrates are necessary to fuel muscles with energy during intense workouts. On the other hand, go a little overboard and you can forget about six-pack abs.

Loss of energy, a growing belly and stalled muscle growth are sure signs that you are overindulging in pasta, cereal and other carbohydrate-rich foods. I don’t think it’s worth pointing out that any trip to the supermarket can turn into a carbohydrate obstacle course, as you have to wade through a jungle of products of questionable quality, teeming with refined carbohydrates and simple sugars, but poor in muscle-building protein.

The key to success in your war against fat deposits will be a clear understanding of where to look for products with low content carbohydrates. Products that are filled to the brim with what your body needs, namely, useful microelements, vitamins and not so dangerous natural ones.

We'll put together a comprehensive shopping list that includes low-carb foods—ideal for active lifestyle enthusiasts. We will go through all the selected items step by step. So who's hungry?

1. Zucchini

Carbohydrates: 7 grams in 1 medium squash

Zucchini, or as the French often call it, zucchini, are green vegetables that will help you remove excess carbohydrates from your diet. Zucchini cut into strings using special vegetable peelers will be an excellent replacement for spaghetti in side dishes for meat dishes.

Grated zucchini can be put into hash browns instead of potatoes, and you can also add them to the dough instead of flour. Or you can make an inspiring low-carb snack. Trim the ends off the squash and slice it into long, wide strips using a peeler or professional vegetable grater. Then place a piece of smoked salmon or arugula on one end of the strip and roll it up.

Good to know. Zucchini is not often called a “superfood”, but it contains a lot of essential substances, including potassium, magnesium, etc.

2. Cauliflower

Carbohydrates: 5 grams per cup

There's a reason why cauliflower is called a "low-calorie starch." Cooked cauliflower's unique texture makes it a great alternative to mashed potatoes (but saves about 23 grams of carbs per serving compared to potatoes), macaroni and cheese, creamy soups, and even flavorful pizza crust. Or grind a raw head of cauliflower in a food processor and cook it instead of millet porridge or rice.

Good to know. Cauliflower is a member of the Brassica family, therefore, like regular cabbage or broccoli, it contains a huge supply of antioxidants.

3. Swiss chard

Carbohydrates: 1 gram in 1 cup

Nutrient-rich, dark leafy vegetables should be on your shopping list, and Swiss chard is no exception. You can steam or fry it, or you can take raw beet leaves and use them instead. rich in carbohydrates tortillas when making tacos and wraps.


Good to know. Swiss chard provides the body with plenty of potassium. A Journal of Dietetics study found that potassium reduces total risk development of oncopathology and heart disease.

4. Mushrooms

Carbohydrates: 2 grams per cup

Porcini mushrooms, champignons and the much more exotic shiitakes - all mushrooms are low-carb foods with great taste and rich aroma. Large, fleshy mushrooms can be used as an alternative topping for hamburger or pizza, which in the traditional version has a detrimental effect on your figure.


Good to know. All types of mushrooms contain large quantities substances that stimulate the immune system.

Carbohydrates: 1 gram per stem

Celery is 95% water, so you shouldn’t be surprised at the almost complete absence of carbohydrates in it. Chop celery into wedges, add it to a salad, or simply spread some nut butter on it for a nutrient-dense snack without the six-pack-killing refined carbs.


Good to know. Celery is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is involved in calcium absorption and strengthens bones.

6. Cherry tomatoes

Carbohydrates: 6 grams per cup

Cherry tomatoes taste better than the larger tomatoes sold in supermarkets, and they offer a great way to boost the nutritional value of your diet without any risk of spinning your carb counter.

You can put the cherry tomatoes in your mouth whole or sprinkle them with vegetable oil and bake at 200 degrees until the tomatoes shrivel and turn into fragrant baked bombs.

Good to know. These pink balls are a source of the anti-cancer antioxidant lycopene.

7. Spaghetti squash

Carbohydrates: 7 grams per cup

Think of spaghetti squash as Mother Nature's low-carb answer to traditional pasta. When cooked, the pumpkin pulp breaks down into thin strips with a nutty flavor that are very low in carbohydrates. Simply slice the pumpkin into thin slices, remove the seeds, and microwave until done.


Pat the squash thoroughly with a paper towel or parchment paper and microwave for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Leave the pumpkin to cool for 5 minutes and then use a fork to shred it into thin strips. Top spaghetti squash pasta with your favorite protein-rich meat dish.

Good to know. Pumpkin is high in vitamin C, a nutrient that helps combat muscle soreness and protect muscles from oxidative stress after intense exercise.

Other low carb vegetables:

  • Radish
  • Watercress

8. Apricots

Carbohydrates: 8 grams per 2 fruits

Enjoy apricots as a quick snack, or chop and add to yogurt, oatmeal, and even salad for a natural sweetness.


Nutritional value: The orange pulp of apricot contains a lot of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that affects brain function.

Carbohydrates: 8 grams in ½ avocado

Unlike its fruit relatives, avocado contains virtually no sugar. 75% of avocado carbohydrates are dietary fiber and are not absorbed in the intestines.


Good to know. Fatty in a good way, avocados are chock-full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids.

Carbohydrates: 11 grams per cup

Of all the berries in the world, strawberries contain the least sugar, making them an excellent choice for satisfying the needs of those with a sweet tooth. If you are concerned about the possible presence of pesticides in your berries, look for “organic” strawberries on the shelves.


Good to know. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and protects the athlete’s body from colds.

11. Red grapefruit

Carbohydrates: 9 grams per ½ cup

It's time for this low-carb fruit. Did you know that grapefruit has 20% less sugar than an orange? Just don't try to mask its sour taste by generously sprinkling the slices with granulated sugar.

Other low carb fruits:

Low carb meat and fish

12. Catfish

Even more delicious than tilapia, catfish is an inexpensive option for loading your muscles with clean, high-quality protein. Catfish raised in fish farms are considered rational choice for those who love fish. Fillet can be steamed, grilled, baked in the oven or fried in a pan.


Good to know. This swimmer is an excellent source that is necessary for normal operation nervous system.

13. Canned pink salmon

Carbs: 0 grams per ½ can

Canned fish – ideal source carbohydrate-free protein. Pink salmon is considered a budget option with low level toxic substances, in particular mercury, which is often present in canned tuna.

Good to know. Canned pink salmon is a great way to get a powerful boost fatty acids class, which reduce muscle soreness after exercise and stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

14. Chicken drumstick

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

Although familiar chicken fillet can be called an ideal choice; budget chicken drumstick also has its advantages. It is juicier, has a richer flavor and does not become too dry during cooking. Do not cut off the skin before cooking to make the drumstick even more flavorful, but if you don't need excess fats, remove the skin before eating.


Good to know. In addition to providing a powerful protein boost (30 grams per 100 grams), chicken drumsticks are rich in selenium, an antioxidant that can help you cope with oxidative stress after a workout.

15. Ground turkey

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

Inexpensive and available everywhere, ground turkey is an easy way to fill your diet with protein without the carb load. Use burger mince or meat dishes. To remove fat calories, look for ground white meat.

Good to know. Like any other bird, turkey contains a full complement of essential amino acids that will boost your muscle growth.

16. Pork tenderloin

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

When cooked correctly, pork tenderloin is juicy and great taste and compared to beef it is not so expensive. It also offers an excellent protein to fat ratio of 6:1. If you buy ready-made pork tenderloin, choose meat without seasoning. This will help you avoid the occurrence of excess salt and questionable ingredients that may end up on the table along with seasonings.


Good to know. In addition to muscle-friendly protein, pork tenderloin contains B vitamins, which are essential for generating the energy you need in the gym.

17. Boneless steak

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

Beef tenderloin is one of the the best varieties lean meat presented in supermarkets. The right choice if you want to fuel your muscles with zero-carb protein. The meat is perfect for marinating, which will make it even more tender. To boost the nutritional value of your meal, choose grass-fed beef steaks.

Good to know. Red meat, including steak, is natural source, a substance beloved by athletes that helps demonstrate miracles of strength in the gym.

18. Roast beef

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

In most cases, roast beef is free of the sugars that may be added to turkey and other deli meats. You may be surprised, but it is also one of the most lean products in the deli meat department.


For an extremely low-carb lunch, wrap a few pieces of roast beef in Swiss chard or kale leaves and add red pepper, Dijon mustard, a small portion of cheese or avocado.

Good to know. The easily digestible form in beef will help revive your muscles during a grueling series of sets in the squat rack.

19. Moose meat

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

When it comes to grilled meats or burgers, consider bringing non-carb sources of protein into play as often as possible. Elk meat is becoming more common in the butcher shop as many people adopt a Paleo diet and actively seek alternatives to beef and farmed meats.

Good to know. Studies have shown that when elk are raised on natural pastures, their meat accumulates much more omega-3 fats than meat from cattle farms that are fed only soy and corn.

Other low-carb meats and fish:

  • Chick

20. Gruyère cheese

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

Forget about cheeses that are produced for the mass market. This unique hard cheese from Switzerland has a wonderful nutty aroma that will not leave you indifferent. Gruyère cheese melts beautifully, making it the perfect way to add variety to everything from steamed broccoli to low-carb pizza.


Good to know. This aged cheese is an excellent source of calcium, a macronutrient involved in bone building and possibly fat burning.

21. Butter

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 1 tablespoon

With the link between saturated fat and heart disease being questioned, to say the least, butter has a place in your kitchen once again. To cook the most delicious mashed potatoes, try tossing steamed cauliflower with butter, fresh thyme and two pinches of salt.

Good to know. Butter substitutes, such as margarine or solid vegetable fats, raise the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood and increase the risk of heart disease to a much greater extent than saturated fats butter.

22. Eggs

Carbs: 1 gram in 2 large eggs

What came first, the egg or the chicken? What difference does it make if both products are loaded with protein and contain virtually no carbohydrates? In fact, egg white It is considered the highest quality among all natural products.


Good to know. Canadian scientists have concluded that eggs are an excellent source of antioxidants and help fight free radicals that damage the cells of our body.

23. Cottage cheese

Carbohydrates: 6 grams per cup

There is a good reason why this product is still considered a favorite among many bodybuilders: cottage cheese is very high in protein (up to 28 grams per 200 grams) with a minimal carbohydrate content. The amount of sodium in cottage cheese varies widely, so choose the manufacturer carefully.

Good to know. Cottage cheese is rich in slow digestion, making it a good choice for an evening treat that will fill your muscles with protein while you sleep at night.

24. Plain Greek yogurt

Carbohydrates: 9 grams per cup

Behind last years Greek yogurt has gone from being a rare guest on the dairy aisle to becoming a cult rock star. Considering that with one serving you get about 23 grams of protein, such popularity of the product can only benefit your muscles. Of course, if you don't want to crank up the carb counter, you'll have to choose plain yogurt, which has no sugar.


Good to know. Probiotics, the friendly creatures found in yogurt, will work to benefit your digestive and immune systems.

25. Goat milk

Carbohydrates: 11 grams per cup

It's time for goat milk to show its horns. This milk shows great promise because it contains fewer carbohydrates than cow's milk, it is better absorbed and, according to recent research, richer in nutrients, in particular omega fatty acids.

Good to know. Analysis nutritional value Goat milk shows that it contains , a fatty acid that helps the body burn fat reserves.

Other low carb dairy products:

  • Ricotta
  • Kefir
  • Cottage cheese

26. Tofu

Carbohydrates: 3 grams per 100 grams

Tofu is not just for vegetarians! He offers inexpensive protein low-carb for meat eaters who want a meat-free evening. Tofu is not a very tasty food, but if you add it to vegetable side dishes or other dishes, it will quickly absorb their flavor. Try it as a source of cheap protein by quickly frying the tofu in a pan or marinating it like you would with meat and throwing it on the grill.


Good to know. Isoflavones, components of soy from which tofu is made, can lower blood pressure.

27. Tempe

Carbohydrates: 9 grams per 100 grams

Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans, making it an excellent source of protein. The flavor can be described as smoky, nutty and a little earthy with a mushroom flavor. Try adding tempeh to chili, tacos, soup and pasta sauce.

Good to know. Being a fermented product like yogurt or kefir, tempeh contains very useful crops probiotic microorganisms.

Carbohydrates: 18 grams per ½ cup

Among beans, Pinto beans contain the fewest carbohydrates but still provide you with an impressive 12 grams of plant-based protein per serving. You can use them as a protein booster in salads and scrambled eggs.

Good to know. A large amount of plant fiber reduces the peak rise in blood sugar caused by carbohydrates in food.


29. Pumpkin seeds

Carbohydrates: 5 grams per 30 grams

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent whole food source of protein, providing nearly 7 grams of protein per serving. Note that pumpkin seeds contain no sugars among their carbohydrates, making them an even better source of extra protein in salads, cereals, yogurt or cottage cheese.

Good to know. you can use pumpkin seeds as a source - a well-known booster of testosterone secretion.

Other low-carb plant proteins:

  • Hemp seeds
  • Edamame

30. String cheese

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

Both adults and children love string cheese. Packaged string cheese is one of the most convenient and affordable low-carb snacks. Your growing muscles will also benefit from an additional supply of high-quality milk protein.


Good to know. Like regular cheese, string cheese contains a lot of calcium.

31. Jerky

Carbohydrates: 3 grams per 30 grams

When it comes to snacks, it's always a challenge to choose a product that offers an impressive amount of protein without adding refined carbs. Jerky will become optimal choice. However, you should choose carefully as some beef or turkey entrees are pre-soaked in sweeteners.

Good to know. Dried meat covers the body's needs for zinc, an essential trace element that supports the immune system and increases testosterone secretion.

Carbohydrates: 4 grams per 30 grams

Walnuts will not only help you snack without excess carbohydrates, but will also provide your body with an impressive portion of very healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and this is another argument in favor of nuts. When purchasing nuts, choose unsalted ones to help control your sodium intake.


Good to know. Nuts contain copper, a trace element that the body needs to synthesize energy.

34. Almond flour

Carbohydrates: 6 grams per ¼ cup

Made from finely ground almonds, Paleo-worthy almond flour will help you make cookies or other baked goods that will be much healthier for your abs.


Good to know. In addition to helping eliminate some carbohydrates from your diet, almond flour contains a lot of protein, heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and is much richer in antioxidants than wheat flour.

35. Shirataki noodles

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per 100 grams

These translucent gelatinous noodles are made from the crushed roots of the Asian plant Amorphophallus konjac. Shirataki is predominantly composed of plant fibers called glucomannan, which provides complete absence carbohydrate load. Shirataki noodles have their own unique taste that is difficult to describe, but they perfectly absorb the flavors of other dishes and go well with various seasonings. Before cooking, rinse the noodles thoroughly with water, then briefly plunge them into boiling water.

Good to know. Preclinical studies show that glucomannan normalizes cholesterol levels and fasting blood sugar, making it beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.

36. Amaranth

Carbohydrates: 23 grams per ½ cup

Cereals will never be the lowest carb item in the supermarket, but South African amaranth contains small amounts of them. Like quinoa, amaranth is a source of essential amino acids that nourish your muscles. Amaranth becomes sticky after cooking as it releases starch. Try it as an alternative to breakfast cereal.

Good to know. Cereals contain gluten free a large number of magnesium is a microelement necessary for normal metabolism.

Other low-carb grains:

  • Hazelnut flour
  • Coconut flour
  • Peanut flour

37. Unsweetened ice tea

Carbohydrates: 0 grams per serving

While bottled sweet tea is a sugar bomb, a drink made with just brewed tea and water is a great thirst quencher and contains no added sugars.


Good to know. If you choose a drink made with green tea, you'll get a boost of antioxidants. Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have proven that when combined with a training program, the antioxidants in green tea accelerate fat burning.

38. Unsweetened almond milk

Carbohydrates: 2 grams per serving

If you need an extra ingredient for your protein shake or morning cereal, try this nut-based drink. A great choice that won't fill your bilges with unnecessary carbs. Just be sure to check the packaging to see if it says “unsweetened milk,” as sugar is added to many non-dairy drinks during production.

Good to know. Almond milk will enrich your diet with vitamin E, which is great for combating cell damage resulting from oxidative stress caused by strenuous exercise.

39. Maple sap

Carbohydrates: 3 grams per cup

Think of maple sap—the purest liquid from maple trees before it turns into syrup—as America's answer to coconut milk, but with the sugar levels cut in half. Each sip will give you that exquisite taste that you are accustomed to associate with morning pancakes.


Good to know. Maple sap is a natural source of magnesium, which is beneficial for bone health.

40. Tomato juice

Carbohydrates: 10 grams per cup

good old tomato juice contains half as much sugar as orange juice. Besides, don't we need to increase the proportion of vegetables in our diet? These days, it's easy to find low-sodium juice to reduce the risk of fluid retention. Be sure to make sure that what you drink is 100% natural. vegetable juice, and not a mixture of sweet fruit juices and sweeteners.

Good to know. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that athletes who drank antioxidant-rich tomato juice were less likely to experience post-exercise inflammation, which may speed up the recovery process.

Other low carb drinks:

  • Herb tea

Proteins, along with fats and carbohydrates, form the basis of human nutrition. Everything that comes into the body as food has a specific function.

Foods containing a lot of proteins are very important for growth and strengthening, as they are building material for tissues and cells. How to structure your diet so that your body does not lack them? Which ones we will consider in this article.

Importance

In Greek, the word for "protein" is "protein." If we consider the literal translation, it turns out that this word means “the one that comes first.” At least based on this we can draw conclusions.

Great need human body in foods with a lot of proteins. Products of this kind are no less necessary than air, and this is not an exaggeration.

So, the main ones in the human body:

  • Active participation in regeneration processes. Protein provides the basis for normal cell division.
  • Active participation in metabolism. As a result, there is a colossal effect on the nervous system.

Consequences of protein deficiency

If in childhood and youth a person does not receive his required minimum of protein on a regular basis, this leads to irreversible consequences, including:

  • slow growth, in critical cases its complete stop is possible;
  • hormonal imbalance;
  • dystrophy;
  • low level of immunity;
  • problems with memory, ability to perceive information;
  • low level of performance.

According to this information, a person who ignores foods high in protein risks turning into a “vegetable” over time, depriving himself of the opportunity to lead a full life.

Protein composition

These substances of organic origin consist of amino acids, which are divided into two categories:

  • Replaceable. There are significantly more of them - 80% of total number. This type amino acids body healthy person produces independently, without the involvement of “external” sources.
  • Irreplaceable. More meager figures are 20%. Here the body is powerless - it can only get these amino acids from foods that contain a lot of protein (table below).

Food

The most important proteins in the formation of a complete human diet are those of animal origin. They contain a large number of amino acids that cannot be replaced. They are also most fully absorbed by the body.

In addition, you can also find products plant origin where there is a lot of protein.

More details in the tables below.

Foods rich in animal proteins:

Foods rich in plant proteins:

Thus, we have indicated the most popular food products that contain a lot of protein. The table, as you can see, is even superior to the “animal” one, but they are assimilated with less success.

Body needs

Each food product includes proteins that differ in their individual set of amino acids. It is important to create your menu so that everything you need comes in abundance. It is also necessary to understand that the food on your table should include animal products, where there is more protein (beef, eggs, fish, and so on). “Meat” protein in the general ratio should be at least one third in relation to “vegetable” protein.

The body's needs are calculated individually, based on parameters such as:

  • height;
  • age;
  • physical activity;
  • mental activity.

There are many complex formulas on the Internet that can be used to calculate the exact protein requirement. But if we take it in general, then the following relationship is suitable, based on which you will already choose food products that contain more proteins, based on your needs:

  • child under 1 year - 25 grams;
  • from 1 year to 1.5 years - 47.8 grams;
  • from 1.5 to 3 years - 53.1 grams;
  • from 3 to 4 years - 62.9 grams;
  • from 5 to 6 years - 72.1 grams;
  • from 7 to 10 years - 79.8 grams;
  • from 11 to 13 years - 95.8 grams;
  • teenager from 14 to 17 years old - 98 grams;
  • women during pregnancy - 110 grams;
  • women during lactation - 125 grams;
  • sexually mature women - 97 grams;
  • sexually mature men - 120 grams;
  • sexually mature women engaged in heavy physical labor - 135 grams;
  • sexually mature men engaged in heavy physical labor - 160 grams;
  • men under 70 years old - 82 grams;
  • women under 70 years old - 69 grams;
  • men over 70 years old - 76 grams;
  • women over 70 years old - 66 grams.

Protein for weight loss

Its role in following a diet is difficult to overestimate, since:


At the same time, making up daily menu, you should approach even those foods that are rich in protein wisely. For example, the same egg. Where is the most protein in an egg? The answer is obvious. The yolk contains about 6 grams of fat. Therefore, even when preparing an omelette with vegetables for breakfast, “cut” it by 1 yolk and with this you will make the dish more dietary.

Light, protein-rich meals

Of course, based on the tables above, it is easy to understand which foods are rich in protein. But how can you combine them so that it is not only tasty, but also healthy? Let's give some recipes.

Spicy omelette in the oven with cottage cheese:


Beat spices, herbs and cottage cheese until smooth. At first, the curd will be cut off - continue stirring. Pour into a non-stick pan and bake for 20 minutes or until the center of the omelette stops jiggling.

Thus, you have received a dish with a lot of protein - about 30 grams per serving, and at the same time a maximum of 170 calories.

Coconut cheesecakes:

  • low-fat paste cottage cheese - 200 grams;
  • chicken egg - 1 piece;
  • rice flour - 30 grams;
  • coconut flakes - 12 grams;
  • sweetener to taste (stevia is fine);
  • baking powder - a pinch.

Preheat the oven to 180 o C.

Mix half with the rest of the products until smooth (where there is a lot of protein, as you can see). Place the mixture in the form of flattened balls on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, sprinkle with the remaining shavings and bake until done (about a third of an hour). You can serve.

Excess is harmful

Despite the fact that proteins are an essential element of human nutrition, their excess can cause significant harm. This is manifested everywhere under the influence of the diets that are so popular today, which extremely reduce the amount of fats and carbohydrates in the food eaten. Of course, such nutrition systems have a lot of advantages in the eyes of followers - you can eat without counting calories, always be full and at the same time lose weight. However, all this beauty also has a downside, the name of which is ketosis. In other words, excessive zeal at supermarket shelves in the process of choosing food that contains a lot of proteins is destructive. Products of this kind contain enough preservatives and additives that provide the necessary taste while minimizing the intake of carbohydrates and fats into the body. If this diet becomes a way of life, then the constant breakdown of fats will lead to the release of acetone, which will poison the entire body. In particular severe cases Even death is possible.

It's very easy to protect yourself from this - just stick to the basics healthy eating and balance.

Iron carries enough important function in the human body and its deficiency leads people to serious ailments. This condition can occur in people who diet, drink excessive amounts of alcohol, or smoke excessively.

Iron is a very important component responsible for the amount of hemoglobin in the blood, and in combination with many other enzymes it is responsible for correct exchange substances.

It directs oxygen to all cells and organs, helps maintain immunity in the body, plays a role in energy metabolism, helps increase nerve fibers, and is also a necessary component for pregnant women, because it does not sufficient quantity While waiting for a child, a woman can suffer serious complications.

What does a lack of iron cause in the body?

With the decline of iron in a person, a decrease in hemoglobin begins, and this state of malaise is called anemia in medicine ().

In case of anemia, it is necessary to carefully monitor the patient's condition and feed the patient with foods that contain large amounts of iron.

In a state of anemia, people become weak and become very tired from even the simplest work.

You can notice the symptoms of anemia by the following signs:

  • the skin becomes pale beyond recognition;
  • and legs;
  • dizziness and;
  • poor appetite or a desire to eat something unusual, such as lime, paper, starch or ice;
  • cold-like symptoms.

Daily iron requirement for humans

A person contains 3-4 mg. gland. Most of the iron is in the blood, remaining in the liver or bones.

For healthy image During the life of a person, it is normally necessary to replenish this enzyme in the body every day in the amount of 10-30 mg, depending on gender and condition:

  • a man needs to consume 10-15 mg per day. substances;
  • For women, the required daily dose is 15 to 20 mg. gland;
  • when bearing a fetus (pregnancy) and breastfeeding, women need to replenish their reserves of the substance by 18 mg;
  • per day, the maximum allowable amount should not exceed 45 mg.

If a person does not receive the daily requirement, problems with flaking of the skin or deterioration in the quality of hair and facial skin will arise. You must replenish it with products containing iron.

Table with a list of all products containing iron

What foods contain iron and what is important to include in your diet - important questions, the answers to which can be found in special tables.

Table 1 - List of iron-containing products

Product group name The product's name
Animal products
Meat and offal beef meat product 3,6
veal meat product 2,9
lamb meat product 3,1
pork meat product (low fat content) 1,8
chicken 3,6-4
rabbit meat product 4,4
brains (beef product) 6
turkey 1,4
lung 10
common carp 2,2
fried chicken 0,7-0,8
pig liver 20,2
chicken liver 17,5
beef liver 6,9
calf liver 5,4-11
kidneys (beef) 7
lard 2,3
heart (beef) 4,8
heart (pork) 4,1
tongue part (beef) 5
tongue part (pork) 3,2
Fish and seafood shrimps 1,7
bivalve 9,2
mussels 6,7
sardines 2,9
sardines (canned version) 2,9
common carp 2,2
tuna (canned version) 1,4
Red caviar 1,8
boiled shellfish 25-30
burbot 1,4
cod 0,6
mackerel 2,3
sea ​​fish 1,1
chum salmon caviar 1,8
black caviar 2,4
Eggs and dairy products chicken eggs (yolk part) 6,7
chicken eggs (white part) 0,2
quail eggs (yolk part) 3,2
butter 0,1
soy products 3,8-4
curd products 0,4
tofu 2,7
cow milk 0,05
Products of plant origin
Cereals and bakery products buckwheat 8
oats 4,3
oat flakes 3,6
barley 12
semolina 1
cereal (corn) 2,7
cereal (millet) 2,7
rye 2,6
pasta 1,2
Rye bread 2,0-2,7
White bread 0,9-2,6
oatmeal 5
lentils 7
wheat germ 8
bran (wheat) 11,1
flour (wheat) 3,3
Vegetables, greens and legumes (this group of products is the most optimal diet for pregnant women, and belongs to the lowest calorie group of products) spinach 3,3
artichoke 3,9
eggplant 0,6
broccoli 0,7
boiled broccoli 1,0-1,2
zucchini 0,4
salad 0,5
beet 1,7
celery 1,3
chard 3,1
carrot 0,7-1,2
potato 0,8
sea ​​kale 16
cauliflower 1,4
Brussels sprouts 1,3
Chinese cabbage 1,3
Sweet pepper 7
turnip (greens) 1,1
corn 2,7
pumpkin 0,8
asparagus 2,1
beans 11-12,4
green beans 5,9
white beans 3,7
red beans 2,9
fresh mushrooms 5,2
dried mushrooms 35
Jerusalem artichoke 4
chickpeas 2,9
beans 5,5
lentils 11,8
parsley 5,8
parsley (root) 1,8
tomatoes 0,6
rhubarb 0,6
peas 8-9,4
Fruits and berries apricots 2,1-4,9
plum splayed 1,9
a pineapple 0,3
citrus 0,4
watermelon 1
bananas 0,7
cowberry 0,4
strawberries 1,2
grape 0,6
cherry 0,5
pomegranate 0,78
pear 2,3
melon 1
plum 2,1
persimmon 2,5
apples 0,5-2,2
peach 4,1
lemon 0,6
strawberry 0,7
cranberry 0,6
gooseberry 1,6
dogwood 4,1
raspberries 1,6
mandarin 0,4
rose hip 11
cherries 1,6
blueberry 8
black currant 2,1
Dried fruits prunes 3
dried apricots 12
dried apricots 11,7
raisin 3
figs 0,4
pear 13
Nuts and seeds pistachios 3,9
cashew 6,7
Pine nuts 3
almond 4,4
peanut 4,6
hazelnut 3,2
sunflower seeds 6
pumpkin seeds 15
walnuts 2,9
Herbs and spices
Herbs and spices thyme (thyme) dried 123,6
dried basil 89,8
dried mint 87,47
dried marjoram 82,71
dried dill 48,78
celery seeds 44,9
laurel 43
dried coriander (cilantro) 42,46
ground turmeric 41,42
ground savory 37,88
oregano (oregano) dried 36,8
dried tarragon (tarragon) 32,3
ground sage 28,12
dried parsley 22,04
paprika 21,14
ground ginger 19,8
fennel seeds 18,54
fresh thyme 17,45
coriander seeds 16,32
cumin seeds 16,23
nutmeg husk 13,9
fresh curly mint 11,87
fresh dill 6,59
fresh parsley 6,2
fresh basil 3,17
fresh coriander (cilantro) 1,77
Seaweed
Seaweed dried spirulina 28,5
dried agar 21,4
Irish moss (carrageen) 8,9
kelp (seaweed) 2,85
spirulina raw 2,79
wakame (Undaria pinnate) 2,18
raw agar 1,86
nori (porphyry) 1,8
Other products
Others cocoa 12,2
hematogen 4
plum juice 2,9
tomato juice 1,8
syrup 21,5
halva 6,4
honey 0,9
Brewer's yeast 16-19
chocolate 2-2,7

The above food products are divided into key groups. Based on iron content, these groups can be arranged in the following order (from the most iron-containing foods to the least):

  • Herbs and spices.
  • Meat and offal.
  • Fish and seafood.
  • Dried fruits.
  • Fruits and berries.
  • Vegetables, greens and legumes.
  • Seaweed.
  • Nuts and seeds.
  • Cereals and bakery products.
  • Eggs and dairy products.
  • Other.

When following a diet, it is very important to know the list of products with the most high level iron in the composition. Products containing large amounts of iron are shown in Table 2.

Table 2 - List of products with high content iron in its composition

Foods High in Iron
Product name Iron content in mg per 100 g
thyme (thyme) dried 123,6
dried basil 89,8
dried mint 87,47
dried marjoram 82,71
dried dill 48,78
celery seeds 44,9
laurel 43
dried coriander (cilantro) 42,46
ground turmeric 41,42
ground savory 37,88
oregano (oregano) dried 36,8
dried mushrooms 35
dried tarragon (tarragon) 32,3
boiled shellfish 25-30
dried spirulina 28,5
ground sage 28,12
dried parsley 22,04
syrup 21,5
dried agar 21,4
paprika 21,14
pork liver 20,2
ground ginger 19,8
fennel seeds 18,54
chicken liver 17,5
fresh thyme 17,45
coriander seeds 16,32
cumin seeds 16,23
Brewer's yeast 16-19
sea ​​kale 16
pumpkin seeds 15
nutmeg husk 13,9
pear 13
cocoa 12,2
barley grits 12
dried apricots 12
beans 11-12,4
fresh curly mint 11,87
lentils 11,8
dried apricots 11,7
wheat bran 11,1
rose hip 11
lungs 10
oysters 9,2
peas 8-9,4
Irish moss (carrageen) 8,9
wheat germ 8
buckwheat 8
blueberry 8
lentils 7
kidneys (beef) 7
Sweet pepper 7
beef liver 6,9
mussels 6,7
cashew 6,7
chicken eggs (yolk) 6,7
fresh dill 6,59
halva 6,4
sunflower seeds 6
fresh parsley 6,2
green beans 5,9
veal liver 5,4-11
beans 5,5
fresh mushrooms 5,2
tongue (beef) 5
oatmeal 5

Iron in food products per 100 grams of product is given in the tables above. For convenience, information on which foods contain the most iron is included in a separate table.

This information will allow you to analyze food products and make the necessary adjustments to your diet if there is an excess or lack of iron in the body.

It is important to take into account that a number of products (tea, coffee and milk, antacids and foods rich in calcium) oppose the absorption of iron. Calcium is actually an antagonist element.

It is recommended to eat foods rich in iron and foods rich in calcium separately.

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If your nails have become brittle, white streaks have appeared on them, mood swings have become frequent, you feel a lack of strength, and you often feel dizzy – it’s time to find out which foods contain iron. A lack of an important element is caused by low-calorie diets, heavy periods, bleeding ulcers, and hemorrhoids.

Types of Foods Rich in Iron

As you know, blood consists of plasma in which blood cells float. They come in three varieties:

  • erythrocytes - red blood cells,
  • leukocytes - white blood cells,
  • platelets - blood platelets.

Red blood cells deliver oxygen to the body's cells and return carbon dioxide to the lungs. They are filled with iron.

When digesting foods containing iron, the body converts them into one of the forms: heme or chelate.

The source of heme iron is animal protein; meat foods are rich in it. In this form, the element is absorbed as completely and easily as possible.

The chelated (non-heme) variety is found in vegetable protein, sugar, herbs - dill, parsley. It has been noticed that when these products are consumed with meat, the absorption of the chelate variety increases.

Signs of iron deficiency in the body

Lack of supply of the necessary element is manifested by dry skin. Hair becomes brittle, loses shine, and falls out. The condition of your teeth may worsen. Reduced metabolic processes as a result of a lack of foods containing iron in the diet cause weight gain.

The skin becomes pale, headaches and fainting occur, dizziness occurs, and “spots” flash before the eyes. I want to sleep during the day, and suffer from insomnia at night. Indicators are getting worse intellectual activity, memory.

Some young women change taste preferences, I'm hungry raw potatoes, chalk or clay. Weakness may appear smooth muscle, manifested by urine leaks. It becomes difficult to swallow dry food, and a habit of drinking is developed.

When the diet ceases to have enough foods containing iron, hemoglobin levels decrease. The tissues no longer receive enough oxygen, and a loss of strength is felt.

A decrease in hemoglobin levels can go unnoticed for a long time if the heart and lungs are healthy and are able to compensate for the lack of oxygen supply to the tissues. With an active lifestyle and physical exercise, loss of strength is noticed earlier than with a sedentary lifestyle.

For men, the lower norm of hemoglobin is considered to be below 132 g/l, for women below 117 g/l. In this case, the critical value is considered to be 110 g/l.

Iron deficiency anemia is quite common, the disease affects about 10-12% of women childbearing age. In pregnant women, the proportion of this type of anemia is more than 80%.

The main causes of iron deficiency anemia:

  • heavy periods;
  • blood loss from digestive system for hemorrhoids, peptic ulcer stomach;
  • impaired absorption of iron from food due to one or another disease of the small intestine;
  • lack of sufficient amounts of iron-containing foods during intensive growth and also in case of pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Daily iron requirement

An adult man needs up to 20 mg of iron per day, a woman – up to 30 mg of iron.

Women have a deficiency important health element is often associated with low calorie diet. With total calories daily ration 1000 kcal of food supplies the body with up to 8 micrograms of iron, which is significantly lower than the recommended norm. In addition, in cottage cheese, yogurt useful element Hardly ever. But food cooked in cast iron cookware contains more iron.

During the day, the body naturally loses up to 1 mg of the element. First of all, losses are associated with desquamation of the epithelium, sweating, menstruation, and hidden bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. During pregnancy, iron reserves are spent on the formation of the placenta, fetal red blood cells, and other needs of the female body.

It turns out that it is more difficult to recognize anemia in smokers. The fact is that the combination of carbon monoxide with hemoglobin, which comes through cigarette smoke, forms a special form of hemoglobin, deprived of the ability to carry oxygen to tissues. As a result, the body increases “good” hemoglobin, which makes it general level turns out to be normal. Therefore for correct diagnosis Anemia should be reported to your doctor bad habit and the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Table of foods containing iron

When compiling a diet of foods rich in iron, one should take into account the different bioavailability of the element associated with its heme or chelate variety.

Iron is absorbed most quickly and completely from beef, lamb, turkey, liver, and fish. Despite the high iron content in plant products– for example, in beans, as well as in mushrooms, iron from them is absorbed much less well.

Table 1. Which foods contain the most iron?
ProductIron content (mg) per 100 g of product
Pork liver20
Beans10-20
Mushrooms17
Beer shakes17
Cocoa12
Pumpkin seeds11
Beef9
Greenery9
Wheat germ8
Lentils7
Sunflower seeds6
Spinach4
Jerusalem artichoke4
Rye bread3
Sea fish2,4
Salo2,3

For this reason, legumes - beans, peas - should be combined with lean meat, which will contribute to better absorption of the iron contained in plant products.

Iron absorption is accelerated by:

  • fruits - orange, apple, pineapple, strawberry, cherry, raspberry, strawberry, plum, currant, peaches;
  • vegetables - fresh cucumbers, red bell pepper, basil, parsley, .

The absorption of non-heme iron contained in foods of plant origin is facilitated by vitamin C.

Vegetables rich in iron in non-heme form: green, tops of radishes, mustard, carrots, leaves, sorrel. There is a lot of it in green peas, raw tomatoes, cabbage, garlic, lettuce, horseradish, beans, cucumbers.

There is a lot of iron in dried apricots, raisins, nuts, pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

Nettle is rich in iron, which has long been used to treat anemia:

  • Before flowering, collect leaves and stems, wash and dry. Pass through a juicer or mixer to obtain juice. Take up to 3 tbsp. per day, along with honey.

You should not be treated with nettle if you have increased blood clotting, thrombophlebitis, or pregnancy.

Sharply reduce iron absorption:

  • dairy products, including cheeses, mainly due to their high content;
  • potatoes, rice, other side dishes;
  • egg white;
  • vegetable protein from cereals.

It is worth giving up the habit of drinking tea or coffee immediately after meals. The tannin they contain binds iron, preventing it from being absorbed by the body.

Contraindications

Excessive iron intake has a toxic effect on the brain, liver, and promotes the development of inflammatory processes.

Alcohol abuse, liver and spleen diseases contribute to the accumulation of iron in the body. In case of its excess, a deficiency of copper, calcium, and chromium occurs.

Iron deficiency, in turn, occurs with excess zinc intake.

Modified: 02/16/2019

Want to get all the nutrients you need naturally? We offer best products, which contain the 20 most important nutrients.

From vitamin A to zinc
To be in good shape, your body requires a certain amount of nutrients, from disease-fighting antioxidants to heavy metals, strengthening bones. While you can get many of these nutrients from food supplements, almost all of them are also found in the foods you eat—or should eat—every day. Want to get your vitamins and minerals naturally? Here are the best foods that contain the 20 most important nutrients (and recipes for enjoying them healthily).

Vitamin A
Why you need it: Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining immunity, in the reproductive process, and it is also very important for vision. Vitamins that include beta-carotene help the retina, cornea, and lining of the eyes function properly. Where to get it: Vitamin A is found in high concentrations in sweet potatoes; Just one medium baked sweet potato contains more than 28,000 international units (IU) of vitamin A, or 561% of the recommended value. daily norm. Beef liver, spinach, fish, milk, eggs and carrots are also good sources of vitamin A.


Vitamin B6.
What it's for: Vitamin B6 is an umbrella term for six different compounds that have similar effects in the body. These compounds are essential for digestion of food, and they also increase hemoglobin (part of your red blood cells), stabilize blood sugar levels and produce antibodies that fight disease. Where to get it: Fish, beef liver and poultry are good sources of vitamin B6, but a food rich in this vitamin - good news for vegetarians - is chickpeas or chickpeas. One cup of canned chickpeas contains 1.1 milligrams (mg) of vitamin B6, or 55% of the daily value.

Vitamin B12
What is it for: Vitamin B12 has great importance for a healthy nervous system, for the formation of DNA and red blood cells. Prevents anemia, which causes fatigue and weakness. Where to get it: Animal products are the best source of B12. Cooked shellfish have the highest concentration, 84 micrograms (mcg)—1.402% DV—in just 3 ounces. (One milligram = 1,000 mcg.) Vitamin B12 is also found in beef liver, trout, salmon and tuna and is added to many breakfast cereals.

Vitamin C
What it's for: Vitamin C is an important antioxidant and is also a necessary ingredient in some key body processes such as protein metabolism and synthesis of neurotransmitters (protein metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters). Where to get it: Most people think of citrus fruits when they think of vitamin C, but sweet red peppers actually contain more vitamin C than any other food: 95 mg per serving (well ahead of oranges and just edging out orange juice, at 93 mg per serving). Other sources of high amounts of vitamin C are kiwi, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cantaloupe.


Calcium
What is it for: Calcium is used by the body for many things. More than 99% of it is needed to strengthen teeth and bones, and the rest is for blood vessels and muscles, cellular interaction and hormone secretion. Where to get it: Dairy products contain the highest amount of natural calcium; plain low-fat yogurt leads the way, with 415 mg (42% DV) per serving. Dark greens (like kale and bok choy) are another natural source of calcium, which can also be found in fortified fruit juices and cereals.

Vitamin D
What it's for: Vitamin D, which our bodies produce when our skin is exposed to sun rays, stimulates calcium absorption and bone growth. It is also important for cell growth, immunity and reducing inflammation. Where to get it: Oily fish, including swordfish, salmon and mackerel, are among the few natural food sources of vitamin D. (Cod liver oil is a leader, with 1,360 IU per tablespoon, and swordfish comes in second at 566 IU, or 142% of the DV.) Most people get vitamin D from foods such as milk, breakfast cereals, yogurt, and Orange juice.

Vitamin E
What it's for: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from harmful molecules known as free radicals. It is important for immunity, and for the healthy functioning of blood vessels, as well as blood clotting (for example, when you cut yourself). Where to get it: While wheat germ oil contains more vitamin E than any other food (20.3 mg per serving, or 100% of the DV), most people have an easier time getting vitamin E from sunflower seeds (7.4 mg oz., 37% DV) or almonds (6.8 mg oz., 34% DV).


Folate (folic acid)
Why you need it: For pregnant women, folate, a B vitamin, helps prevent birth defects. For the rest, it helps in the development of new tissues and proteins. Where to get it: Folate is found in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts and dairy products. Beef liver has the highest concentration of this vitamin, but if you don't like liver, spinach is also high in this vitamin: 131 mcg per half cup (boiled), or 33% of the daily value. Folic acid, a man-made form of folate, is also added to many breads, cereals and cereals.

Iron What is it for?
Proteins in our bodies use this metal to transport oxygen and grow cells. Much of the body's iron is found in hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Where to get it: There are two forms of iron in food: heme iron (found in animal foods such as red meat, fish and poultry) and non-heme iron (found in plant foods such as lentils and beans). Chicken liver contains greatest number heme iron, 11 mg per serving or 61% DV.

Vitamin K
Vitamin K is important element in coagulation or blood clotting. Without it, your body won't be able to stop bleeding when you get hurt or cut. Where to get it: Green leafy vegetables are the best source of this vitamin, also known as phylloquinone. Kale contains the most of this vitamin (1.1 mg per cup), followed by spinach (about 1 mg per cup), then plants like turnips, mustard greens and beet greens.

Lycopene (antioxidant)
This chemical pigment is found in red fruits and vegetables and has antioxidant properties. Some studies show that lycopene protects against a number of diseases, including heart disease and some types of cancer. Where to get it: Tomatoes are the best known source of lycopene and, of course, it is found in products made from tomatoes such as sauces, spreads and purees, containing up to 75 mg of lycopene per cup. Raw, unprocessed tomatoes are not as rich in lycopene; even watermelon contains more lycopene - about 12 mg per slice - than a tomato, which has only 3 mg.

Lysine
What it's for: Lysine, also known as L-lysine, is an amino acid that helps the body absorb calcium and form collagen for bones and connective tissues. He also plays important role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient that helps regulate cholesterol levels. Where to get it: Protein-rich animal foods, especially red meat, are a good source of lysine, as are nuts, legumes and soybeans.

Magnesium
Why you need it: The body uses magnesium in more than 300 biochemical reactions, which include maintaining muscle and nerve functions, normalizing the rhythmic functioning of the heart and maintaining bone strength. Where to get it: Wheat bran have the highest amount of magnesium per serving (89 mg per quarter cup or 22% daily dose), but you must consume unrefined grains to reap the benefits, since when the germ and bran are removed from wheat (as in white and refined bread), magnesium is also lost. Other great sources of magnesium include almonds, cashews and green vegetables such as spinach.


Niacin
What is it for: niacin, like its fellow B vitamins, has important to convert food into energy. It also helps the digestive and nervous systems function properly, as well as skin. Where to get it: Dried yeast is one of the main sources of niacin, but a more appetizing option is peanuts or peanut butter; One cup of raw peanuts contains 17.6 mg, more than 100% of the daily value. Beef and chicken liver are especially rich in niacin.

Omega-3 fatty acids
What they're good for: We're bad at fats, but some types of fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat, are actually very healthy in moderation. Omega-3s are good for the brain and they also reduce inflammation. Where to get it: There are two categories of omega-3 fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is found in plant sources, such as vegetable oils, green vegetables, nuts and seeds, while eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) - which fall into the second category - are found in oily fish. One bowl of tuna salad contains about 8.5 grams of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Potassium
What it's for: Potassium is an essential electrolyte needed to control electrical activity hearts. It is also used to build proteins and muscles, and convert carbohydrates into energy. Where to get it: One medium baked sweet potato contains about 700 mg of potassium. Tomato paste, beet greens and regular potatoes are also good sources of potassium, as are red meat, chicken and fish. Riboflavin What it's for: Riboflavin, another B vitamin, is an antioxidant that helps the body fight disease, produce energy and produce red blood cells. Where to get it: beef liver is richest source riboflavin, 3 ounces contain about 3 mg of riboflavin. Don't like liver? Fortunately, fortified cereals (such as Total or Kellogg's All-Bran) contain almost as much vitamin.

Selenium
What it's for: Selenium is a mineral with antioxidant properties. The body requires small amounts of selenium, but it plays a significant role in the prevention of chronic diseases. It also helps regulate thyroid function and the immune system. Where to get it: Just six to eight Brazil nuts contain 544 mcg of selenium - that's 777% daily value. But too much selenium is bad, so stick to another option—canned tuna (68 mg in 3 ounces, equal to 97% of the daily value)—except in special cases.

Thiamine
What it does: Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy. In addition, it is very important for maintaining the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. Where to get it: Dry yeast is the best source of thiamine, as well as riboflavin, 100 grams of yeast contains 11 mg of thiamine. You can get thiamine from other foods, such as pine nuts (1.2 mg per serving) and soybeans (1.1 mg).

Zinc
What you need it for: Zinc is essential for the immune system (you may see it in cold remedies), and it also plays an important role in the sense of touch and smell. Where to get it: Oysters contain the most zinc of any food (74 mg per serving, or nearly 500% of the daily value), but people are more likely to get zinc from red meat and poultry. For example, three ounces of roast beef contains 7 mg of zinc. Crab is also a good source of zinc.