Which of the following foods is a rich source of iron and often recommended for a patient with iron deficiency anemia?

• A. Liver
• B. Lima beans
• C. Prune juice
• D. Cabbage

Answer: (A)

Iron deficiency anemia improves when you get iron in a form the body can absorb easily. Liver provides heme iron, the form that is absorbed most efficiently by the gut, so it’s a rich and practical dietary source for boosting iron stores. Plant foods like lima beans do contain iron, but it’s non-heme iron with lower bioavailability and more potential to be inhibited by other dietary components. Prune juice and cabbage have only small amounts of iron, making them unreliable for treating iron deficiency. So, liver stands out as a strong dietary source of iron. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C can boost absorption, and moderation is wise with liver due to its high vitamin A content.