[Wednesday]

You can definitely get adequate iron without red meat. I have been vegetarian for nearly 15 years and I donate blood regularly so I know my iron stores are fine.

I just found this information:

The absorption of iron is influenced by other constituents of a meal. Phytates, oxalates and phosphates present in plant foods can inhibit absorption, as can tannin in tea. Fibre may also inhibit absorption. Vitamin C greatly increases the absorption of iron. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, green peppers, and fresh leafy green vegetables. Citric acid, sugars, amino acids and alcohol can also promote iron absorption.
Good sources of iron include wholegrain cereals and flours, leafy green vegetables, blackstrap molasses, pulses such as lentils and kidney beans, and some dried fruits.

I do believe women can become deficient during their time of the month so I take an iron tablet during this time.

I hope that helps.