Eating a balanced diet that includes food iron rich food can help prevent iron deficiency.

Fe Deficiency Anemia and Prevention

Iron deficiency is the most common nutrition deficiency amongst babies, children, and childbearing aged women. Iron deficiency in children can cause delayed development and damaged health.

Prevent Iron Deficiency

Exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months of life reduces the risk of childhood anemia. Iron absorption from human milk is 2 to 3 times higher than any other food or supplement for babies.

Include a variety of foods in your child’s balanced diet. After solid foods are introduced at around 6 months of age you may begin to add iron-rich foods. Consult the iron rich food list for more food suggestions.

Some babies require iron supplements. Babies born premature or babies suffering from various illnesses may require iron drops and parents should consult their doctors regarding treatment and dosage.

Improved Absorption

It is possible to improve the way your child’s body absorbs iron by eating foods from different sources such as particular raw vegetables and meat. Foods that are rich in vitamin C such as citrus and tomato are known to increase iron absorption.

Avoid giving cow’s milk for at least 12 months as it is low in iron and may also cause bleeding in the digestive tract which contributes to anemia.

Food Suggestions