A key nutrient for everyone to look out for (but especially my plant-based/vegan friends) is IRON. This mineral is crucial to the health of red blood cells, muscles, and many proteins and enzymes in the human body. Without enough, you will feel TIRED, dizzy, and may experience damaged hair and nails. Luckily, lentils, beans, legumes, soy, dark green vegetables, tomato products, molasses, cocoa powder, and many nuts, seeds and whole grains are rich in this essential nutrient! Important tips: Be sure to eat your iron with a source of vitamin C (oranges, lemon, lime, bell pepper, etc.) for better absorption. Additionally, save coffee and tea for between meals since these beverages contain compounds which reduce bioavailability or iron. This easy little meal of red lentil pasta, homemade kale pesto (see previous post for recipe!), and roasted broccoli and tomatoes contains a whopping 8mg of iron (100% of the recommended daily intake for men, 44% for women age 19-50). Not to mention, 18g of protein and 7g of fiber. Not bad for a quick little vegan dinner! #essencenutrition #feedyouressence #easyrecipes #veganrecipes #healthyfood #plantlife #plantbased #plantpower #recipes #vegan #getyourveggies #nutrition #nutritiontips #broccoli