Iron Water - Blackstrap Molasses Drink

The greatest plant-based source of iron available is none other than blackstrap molasses. It’s full of minerals and iron – 70% of our daily iron requirement actually! Blackstrap molasses are also known to contain other nutrients including B vitamins, calcium, and folate – nutrients that are especially good for fertility and pregnancy. But it’s a thick, tar-like goo with a flavor so robust it makes Buckley’s taste good.

Blackstrap molasses sugar cane has an extremely long root and that long root allows it to reach vitamins and minerals deep in the soil, nutrients that were long ago depleted from shallow soil. Since blackstrap molasses packs such an amazing nutrient punch, I had to figure out a way incorporate this food into my diet.

To make blackstrap molasses more palatable, I created my own little tasty drink recipe, which I call “Iron” Water. It has the goodness of iron rich molasses and the zing of vitamin C loaded acerola berry and lemon, which increase iron absorption. The honey adds a sweet touch and a boost of enzymes and minerals. I drank “Iron” Water throughout my pregnancy, breast-feeding period and have continued until now, as a competitive athlete. Really, this drink is great for anyone that wants a nutrient boost!

Ingredients:

8 oz water

1 tbsp. blackstrap molasses

1 tsp. vitamin C powder from acerola berry powder (optional)

1 tsp. raw honey or maple syrup

Squeeze of lemon (or lime)

Directions:

Add the blackstrap molasses to a glass of water and stir. You can enjoy it with cold water or warm, depending on the time of day and weather. For maximum nutrient absorption, I recommend warm water. Although when I was pregnant, I always “craved” cold water so that’s how I had mind for a period of time.

Once the blackstrap molasses have dissolved, add the vitamin C, honey and lemon and stir. That's all there is to creating your nutrient packed “Iron” Water. Enjoy!