The TRUTH About Cooking in Cast Iron
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted June 15, 2023
I have a neighbor who always cooks with cast iron.
He tells me that he does this so he can make sure he’s getting enough iron.
So is my neighbor onto something or not? You might be surprised by the answer.
Yes, using cast-iron cookware DOES add some iron to your diet. The iron seeps into the food you’re cooking, especially if it’s acidic.
But the truth is it’s not likely to be anywhere near enough to prevent or treat an iron deficiency. Plus, the TYPE of iron you’re getting from your cast-iron pans is just one of several types you need.
There are three main kinds of iron: elemental, heme, and non-heme iron.
- Elemental iron is the kind found in cast iron. It’s what it sounds like, just the element iron.
- Heme iron is found in meats, and is the most bioavailable form (most easily absorbed and used by your body).
- And then there’s non-heme iron, which is in animals but is also found in beans, nuts, and seeds. This type is less bioavailable than heme iron.
So, if you want to be sure you’re getting enough iron, don’t stop with cooking food in your cast iron pan. You’ll also want to make sure you’re getting enough meat.
There are plenty of good reasons to cook in cast-iron pans. But fulfilling all your iron needs isn’t one of them.
P.S. The chemicals used in non-stick pans, perfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, are linked to cancer, hormonal changes, immune dysfunction, and more. But researchers say there’s ANOTHER good reason to toss this cookware in the trash. CLICK HERE for the disturbing truth.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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