Lentils are high in essential mineral iron, with 6.6 milligrams (mg) — or 37% of your recommended daily intake (RDI) — per one-cup serving. About 70 percent of the iron in your body is stored in your red blood cells (hemoglobin) which are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Iron deficiency can lead to a condition called anemia, in which there is a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, lightheadedness, dizziness, weakness, rapid heart beat, pale skin, and insomnia.

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