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