Iron is a vital part of red blood cells. Without enough iron, the lifespan of a single red blood cell can drop from the normal 120 days to about 15 days. Without red blood cells, a baby’s tissues and organs won’t get enough oxygen, a problem that can result in long term health issues. But iron supplements for infants aren’t the only, or even the best solution. Most babies are better off getting iron through food sources because supplements can be dangerous for babies with sufficient iron.
Iron Deficiency Anemia in Infants
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia in infants and toddlers, but it is still a rare occurrence in the developed world. A baby is usually born with enough iron in his body to last six months or more.
Both breast milk and most infant formulas have enough iron for a healthy, full-term infant. However, infants who do develop iron deficiency anemia could be at risk for brain damage that leaves them with lifelong learning or behavior problems. The risk is also highest between the ages of 9 months and 24 months old.
High-Risk Babies
Giving your baby cow’s milk before she turns one could put her at risk for iron deficiency anemia. It’s best to avoid introducing any milk other than breast milk or formula before that age. Babies with a food allergy might also be at risk because food allergies can cause mild intestinal bleeding that leads to blood loss. Premature babies and infants who are fed low-iron formula are also at higher risk.
Iron Supplements for Babies
If your baby is not in a high-risk group, or even if he is but he gets extra iron through iron-rich solid foods such as fortified infant cereals, meat, egg yolks, raisins, fish, beans, or leafy green vegetables, then he probably doesn’t need supplements. Babies who do need infant iron supplements should get a prescription from a pediatrician, since the specific dose needs to be matched to the baby’s iron levels. It typically takes about three months to raise iron levels up to a normal level once a baby starts taking supplements.
Dangers of Iron Supplementation
Giving a baby too much iron can be just as dangerous as not providing enough. Over a long period of time, excess iron can cause liver damage. Bottles or packs of iron supplements should also be kept out of reach of babies or toddlers because accidental poisoning can occur if a small child takes too much in one dose. Accidental poisoning with iron is the most common type of accidental poisoning in children, and it can be deadly.
References:
Baby Center: Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Babies
American Family Physician: Anemia in Children
University of Maryland Medical Center: Iron
Bridget Coila - I'm a cell and molecular biologist, freelance writer and photographer currently living in Beijing, China. I'm fascinated by science, ...
