Which food source is considered high in iron for vegetarians?

Legumes are considered a high iron food source for vegetarians due to their substantial iron content and their role as a primary protein source in plant-based diets. Foods such as lentils, chickpeas, and various types of beans are particularly rich in non-heme iron, which is the type of iron found in plant foods. This is important for vegetarians, who do not consume meat, as they need to incorporate iron-rich foods into their diets to meet their nutritional needs.

Additionally, legumes provide a variety of other essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, folate, and various minerals, making them a very beneficial addition to a vegetarian diet. It is also worth noting that consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside legumes can enhance the absorption of non-heme iron, thus further improving iron status among vegetarians. Reinforcing the understanding of combining foods can aid in maximizing nutrient intake effectively within a vegetarian lifestyle.