Which food should a nurse recommend to a pregnant client to increase dietary iron intake?

Whole-grain cereal is a good source of dietary iron, especially when fortified. While spinach and other plant sources do contain iron, the type of iron found in these foods is non-heme iron, which is not as readily absorbed by the body compared to heme iron found in animal products. Furthermore, red meat and poultry also provide heme iron, which is highly absorbable, but whole-grain cereals can be particularly beneficial for boosting iron intake, especially for individuals who may not consume enough animal products. Whole-grain cereals can be a practical recommendation for pregnant clients to help meet their increased iron needs, particularly when paired with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption.