Want to be King of the kitchen? Look to Game of Thrones for some un-boring advice on how to reign supreme. That being said, iron often ends lives in Game Of Thrones, but in this case, we’ve prepared some advice on how iron can actually improve your health.

Game of Thrones fans around the world are pretty handy when it comes to crafting their own Iron Thrones. There is, however, a better way for guys to get more iron in their lives: By eating it.

Why is iron important?

We’re not talking about sword-swallowing here. As it turns out, iron is an essential nutrient that carries oxygen to your muscles and brain, all the better for any combat you might encounter. It’s crucial for both mental and physical performance, as low iron levels may result in a lack of focus, increased irritability and reduced stamina. Who needs that when you’re facing being late for work or have to find the energy to do an activity with your family.

Win with these iron-rich foods

Health Canada recommends that adult men consume around 8 milligrams of iron per day. Red meat contains a lot of iron, with a nine-ounce steak just about fulfilling a guy’s daily needs. However, there can be a lot of fat in red meat, so men should substitute with other sources once in awhile. For example, 1 cup of soybeans actually contains more iron than steak. The good news is that many other tasty foods are packed with iron, such as:

  • Steamed mussels: Contain nearly twice as much iron as steak!

  • Turkey: Yup, Thanksgiving’s culinary centrepiece is on par with steak.

  • Chicken and fish: About a third as much as turkey, but still very good sources of iron.

More than meat

Generally speaking, plant based foods also contain iron, but that iron is not absorbed quite as easily. However, this list of vegetables contributes to your daily intake while offering additional health benefits:

  • Baked beans

  • Pumpkin, sesame, or squash seeds

  • Lima beans, red kidney beans, chickpeas, or split peas

  • Potatoes

  • Broccoli

So put some nice steamed broccoli and a baked potato next to that barbecued salmon steak (go easy on the butter and salt!) and you’ll have more than enough energy to do anything you want!

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