First confirm deficiency with labs (ferritin/hemoglobin). For faster dietary impact: include heme iron sources (red meat/fish) several times weekly, pair plant sources with vitamin C, keep tea/coffee away from meals, and stay consistent. If ferritin is very low or anemia exists, food is the foundation but clinician-guided supplements can accelerate correction. If blood loss causes (heavy periods, GI loss) are not addressed, iron may drop again.