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What does it mean to have "low iron" as an athlete and what can I eat to improve my iron status?

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Iron is an especially important mineral for athletes because its primary role is to carry oxygen throughout your body. Because of this, many athletes find they are very tired and fatigue easily if their iron is low. “Low iron” can mean different things, so be sure to confirm your iron status with your healthcare provider. The best way to prevent low iron is by eating iron-rich foods in the forms of meats, beans, fortified breakfast cereals, cooked spinach…even dark chocolate has a good dose of iron! Be sure to get a variety of high-iron foods throughout your day, everyday. If you’re directed to take an iron supplement, taking it with a high vitamin C food, like orange juice, can help with absorption. Be sure to enjoy your dairy foods a couple hours after taking your iron supplement for maximal benefit.

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Dairy West represents dairy farm families in Idaho and Utah and promotes the dairy industry and dairy products locally, nationally and globally.

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