What if your saucepan could become a discreet ally for your vitality? A small, fish-shaped object, placed in boiling water, promises to enrich your dishes with iron. Behind this surprisingly simple gesture lies an initiative studied by researchers and designed to address a genuine public health issue.
The "iron fish", user manual
Called "Lucky Iron Fish," this small metal fish is anything but a decorative accessory. Designed to be placed in water or food while cooking, it releases a small amount of iron when certain conditions are met.
The principle is simple: you boil it in about a liter of water for around ten minutes, ideally with an acidic element like a few drops of lemon. The acidity promotes the release of iron into the liquid. This water can then be drunk as is or used in your recipes. The stated objective of the device's creators is clear: to help prevent iron deficiency anemia, a form of anemia linked to a lack of iron, which is particularly widespread worldwide.
@thenutritiongirl Replying to @Kitt the iron fish releases 6-8mg of iron per 1 liter of liquid. I use it mainly to fortify my water with extra iron. I struggle to keep my iron levels up so this is a game changer. #ironfish #luckyironfish #iron #irondeficiency #lowiron #irondeficiencyanemia ♬ Everybody Wants To Rule The World
Why your body loves iron
Iron plays a key role in the production of hemoglobin, the vital protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. In short, it contributes to your energy, concentration, and overall well-being.
According to the World Health Organization , iron deficiency is among the leading causes of anemia worldwide, particularly affecting women and children. In France, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES) recommends an intake of approximately 11 mg per day for adult men and 16 mg for women of childbearing age. Your needs may vary depending on your age, lifestyle, or specific periods such as pregnancy. When diet does not meet these needs, a deficiency can develop.
An innovation born from a concrete challenge
Iron fish was developed in a specific context: to combat anemia in certain regions of Southeast Asia where access to dietary supplements is limited. Scientific studies, notably those published in the journal PLOS One , have evaluated its effectiveness. In Cambodia, some research has shown improved iron levels in participants who regularly used the device, compared to control groups. However, researchers emphasize a crucial point: the addition of an acidic agent is essential to optimize iron release.
Fish can release several milligrams of iron per use, depending on the boiling time, the acidity of the liquid, and its condition, but the issue isn't just the amount released. It also depends on bioavailability, that is, your body's ability to absorb the iron. Metallic iron, known as non-heme iron, is generally less well absorbed than the iron found in animal products. Vitamin C, provided by lemon for example, improves this absorption. In other words, the process is simple, but its effectiveness relies on regular and appropriate use.
Should you adopt it in your kitchen?
This iron fish is not just a marketing gimmick; it is part of a public health initiative and has undergone scientific evaluation. However, it does not replace medical advice. In cases of confirmed anemia, a diagnosis relies on blood tests, and supervised supplementation may be necessary.
Before you begin, it's also recommended to have your iron levels checked by a healthcare professional, especially if you experience persistent fatigue or unusual shortness of breath. As part of a balanced diet, this iron-rich fish can be considered a small additional boost. It's not a miracle cure, but one tool among many to support your vitality.
@eco.amical It's a sustainable choice that keeps me from constantly buying iron supplements. Simply boil it for 10 minutes with 2 drops of lemon, and it's good to go! @luckyironlife is made from food-grade electrolytic iron powder and FDA certified, it's gentle on the stomach and incredibly versatile. I use it to fortify everything from my matcha and baked goods to veggie broth and stews. With summer here, I can even make iron-infused ice cubes for my drinks! To keep it in top shape, wash it with soap and water, dry it thoroughly, and it should last you 5 years. I add a touch of coconut oil to protect it, and it's ready for its next use! #PlasticFree #EcoFriendly #IronFish #HealthyLiving #Sustainable #IronBoost #VitaminAlternative #LowIron #EcoLifestyle #Reusable ♬ A Summer Place - Hollywood Strings Orchestra
Slipping a small iron fish into your pan is therefore not just a culinary curiosity. It's a simple gesture, rooted in a real chemical principle, that illustrates how innovation can sometimes be found in the most unexpected details.
