Iron-Rich Food, Zero Benefit? Why Timing and Food Combinations Matter More Than You Think

• Low hemoglobin despite iron-rich diet? The issue might be when and how you eat, not just what.
• Iron absorption is highly sensitive to timing, food combinations, and daily habits.
• Heme iron (animal sources) is absorbed more efficiently than non-heme iron (plant sources), which is vulnerable to interference.
• Common iron blockers include tea/coffee (tannins, polyphenols), calcium-rich foods (milk, curd), and high-fiber foods/phytates.
• Boost iron absorption by separating iron-rich meals from blockers by 1-2 hours, pairing with Vitamin C, and using traditional cooking methods.