Rich in iron

Teff is abundant in iron, a vital element that transports oxygen throughout the body via red blood cells. In fact, eating this grain has been related to a lower incidence of anemia in pregnant women and may help some people avoid iron deficiency. Surprisingly, some studies estimate iron levels as high as 80 mg per 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of teff, or 444% of the DV. However, current research indicates that these astounding figures are most likely the result of contamination with iron-rich soil rather than the grain itself. Furthermore, because of the high phytic acid concentration in teff, your body is unlikely to absorb all of the iron.

Even by cautious estimations, teff is a greater supplier of iron than many other bowls of cereal. For example, 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of one brand of teff flour has 37% of the daily value (DV) for iron, but the same amount of wheat flour contains only 5%. However, in the United States, wheat flour is frequently iron-enriched. Check the nutritional label to see how much iron is in a certain product.