Vegans are no more at risk of iron deficiency (the major symptom of which is anemia) than the general population and can obtain from many plant sources, including: lentils, beans (including soy), pumpkin seeds, leaf vegetables, tofu, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, potatoes with skin, bread made from completely whole-grain flour and molasses.

Things to look out for:

- Research indicates that taking enough Vitamin C is vital for proper iron absorption. If you think you have an iron deficiency, this is the first thing you should check!

- Calcium supplements, coffee and tea inhibit iron absorption if taken at the same time, so avoid them at meals in which you are trying to increase iron absorption.