Iron Deficiency Prevention Tips for Parents
The Role of Iron in Growing Children
Iron helps children’s blood carry oxygen throughout their bodies. Their muscles also use iron to store and use oxygen, especially during physical activity and periods of growth. When iron levels are too low, children may develop more slowly and have weaker immune systems. A lack of iron can lead to iron deficiency anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. This can cause symptoms like tiredness and pale skin.
Daily Iron Needs by Age
Children need different amounts of iron as they grow. The chart below shows the recommended daily intake for each age group:
| Age Group | Iron Needed per Day |
|---|---|
| 7 – 12 months | 11 mg |
| 1 – 3 years | 7 mg |
| 4 – 8 years | 10 mg |
| 9 – 13 years | 8 mg |
| 14 – 18 years (girls) | 15 mg |
| 14 – 18 years (boys) | 11 mg |
Infants are born with some iron stored in their bodies, but as they grow, they need a steady supply from their meals or, sometimes, from supplements. Foods like lean meats, beans, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals provide iron.
Groups Most Likely to Have Low Iron
Some children have a higher risk for iron deficiency based on age, eating habits, or health factors:
- Infants born early or at a low birth weight. Premature babies and those who weigh less than average at birth may not have enough stored iron.
- Babies given cow’s or goat’s milk before 12 months. Milk from cows or goats doesn’t have enough iron for infants and can block iron absorption.
- Infants who aren’t offered iron-rich foods after 6 months. After 6 months, babies need more than just milk to meet their iron needs.
- Children who drink much cow’s milk between ages 1-5.Drinking more than 24 ounces per day can prevent the body from absorbing enough iron.
- Children with chronic illnesses or poor diets.Kids with health conditions that limit food choices, or those who don’t eat many iron-containing foods, face a higher chance of deficiency.
- Kids exposed to lead. Lead can interfere with iron absorption and increase deficiency risks.
- Overweight or obese children. Extra weight can increase the risk for low iron.
- Adolescent girls. Because of monthly blood loss, teenage girls need more iron.
Common Signs When Iron is Too Low
Most children don’t show clear signs of low iron until the problem becomes more serious. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Pale skin, lips, or nail beds
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- Cold hands and feet
- Slowed growth or not gaining weight as expected
- Poor appetite
- Rapid breathing
- Irritability or behavior changes
- Getting sick often
- Unusual cravings for things like ice, dirt, or starch
If you notice these symptoms or risk factors, talk to a healthcare professional.
Steps to Help Prevent Low Iron in Kids
Parents can take several steps to lower their child’s risk for iron deficiency:
- Use iron-fortified formula for bottle-fed infants, especially if the baby isn’t eating regular iron-rich foods yet.
- If breastfeeding, ask your child’s health care provider about iron supplements. Babies who are only breastfed may need iron drops, starting by 4 months for full-term babies, and as early as 2 weeks for those born early.
- Introduce iron-rich solids like fortified baby cereal, puréed meats, or beans starting around 4 to 6 months.
- Limit milk to no more than 24 ounces a day for young children (1 to 5 years old), as too much milk can prevent iron absorption and lower appetite for other foods.
- Offer a mix of iron-rich foods at every meal. Good choices include:
- Lean beef, chicken, turkey, or fish (easy-to-absorb iron)
- Beans, lentils, spinach, broccoli, and iron-fortified grain products
- Pair iron sources with foods high in vitamin C. Foods like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and tomatoes help the body absorb iron better.
- Talk to a healthcare professional about iron supplements if your child is in a higher-risk group or doesn’t eat enough iron-rich foods.
When Should a Child Get Checked for Low Iron
Doctors check for iron deficiency or anemia with blood tests that measure hemoglobin and ferritin levels. Screening for iron deficiency anemia is typically recommended between 9 and 12 months of age. Children at higher risk may need to be tested again later.
A blood test can show if a child needs more iron or an iron supplement. Depending on the results, the doctor may suggest iron supplements, a daily vitamin, or changes in your child’s diet. If you have questions or notice changes in your child’s growth, skin color, appetite, or behavior, contact your child’s health care team.
