Iron is one of the vital nutrients in your child's diet, as it is an important component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen to all parts of the body. Iron deficiency anemia is usually caused by a poor intake of iron. According to a study cited in the journal "Pediatrics," this condition affects 2.4 million children in the United States. Symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath, weakness, loss of appetite and brittle nails.
Iron Deficiency
Consuming too much cow's milk can cause iron deficiency in young children, as it contains little iron and can interfere with iron absorption. Cow's milk can also irritate the intestines causing blood loss, which places your child at a greater risk of developing anemia. The American Academy of Pediatrics says to give formula, which is iron-fortified, to children under 1 year old.
Recommended Daily Allowance
The recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, of iron varies according to your child's age. The RDA of iron is 7 mg for children ages 1 to 3, 10 mg for ages 4 to 8 and 8 mg for ages 9 to 13. Young children with iron deficiency may have difficulty concentrating and may develop learning and behavioral problems that become permanent. Giving your child iron-rich foods from animal and plant sources will prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia.
Iron in Animal Sources
Include liver, lean beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, seafood and eggs in your child's diet, as these foods have a high content of iron. The form of iron in these foods is also more easily absorbed in the body than the iron from plant foods. Examples of seafood that are rich in iron include salmon, sardine, clams and tuna. You can include these foods in bread, bagels, pita bread or mini-baguette to make a sandwich, or add them to a salad.
Iron in Plant and Fortified Sources
Encourage your child to eat green vegetables -- such as broccoli, asparagus, dandelion greens, kale and spinach -- as these are a good source of iron. Pulses and beans are also a good source of iron. As a snack, give dried apricots, prunes, figs and raisins. This also contributes toward the daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron. So, combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, peppers, strawberries, tomatoes and kiwi fruit. Give your child iron-fortified breakfast cereal to increase his daily allowance.
Member Comments