Two kinds of Iron The human body needs iron to produce hemoglobin, a substance that helps red blood
cells transport oxygen. Without enough iron, a person may feel tired and weak. Dietary
sources of iron include plant sources, such as vegetables and beans, and animal foods,
including poultry, red meat, and fish. However, plant and animal sources are not equal
The iron in plants, called nonheme iron, is not easily absorbed by the human digestive
system. For example, a half cup of cooked spinach contains a healthy dose of over the
milligrams of iron. Unfortunately, only five percent of that iron can be used by the bodi
On the other hand, the iron in animal foods, called heme iron, is better utilized. Heme
iron is contained within a ring of protein, which helps the body to absorb it easily.
What is the main idea of the passage?
Plant and animal food sources both contain iron, but the iron in animal foods
is more accessible to the body.
Plant and animal food sources both contain iron, which helps red blood cells
carry oxygen throughout the body.