Because of a higher blood volume when you are pregnant, you need more iron to ensure the healthy growth of your fetus and avoid iron deficiency anemia that can cause preterm delivery and low birth weight. Infants need iron to grow and develop properly, though excess amounts can cause toxicity, leading to severe health problems and even death.
Iron in the Body
Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. It also is important for cell growth and differentiation. Your body stores dietary iron and absorbs it according to needs. Iron from foods does not lead to levels that are too high, though iron supplements can cause high levels during pregnancy. If you give iron supplements to an infant when they are not needed, her blood iron level can be too high.
Risks of High Iron During Pregnancy
The recommended dietary allowance of iron for non-pregnant females between the ages of 19 and 50 is 18 mg per day. During pregnancy, the RDA is 27 mg per day. It is possible to get too much iron during pregnancy through supplements or prenatal vitamins. Blood iron levels that are too high can cause gestational diabetes or oxidative stress, which can cause miscarriage, preeclampsia or infertility. Oxidative stress also might be associated with heart disease and asthma.
Iron Toxicity in Infants
Healthy infants are born with an iron supply that lasts four to six months, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. The RDA of iron for infants 7 to 12 months of age is 11 mg per day. If administration of a supplement creates a blood iron level that is too high, toxicity can occur. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, according to "Pediatrics in Review." Continued supplementation above what an infant needs can lead to poisoning, causing hemorrhaging, hypoglycemia, shock and possibly death. Seek medical help immediately if you are administering iron supplements to your infant and he develops these symptoms.
Iron Supplementation
When you are pregnant, take iron supplements only under the direction and monitoring of your doctor. It also is important to attend all of your prenatal appointments so your doctor can monitor iron levels and iron-related symptoms. In addition, don't give iron supplements to an infant without your doctor's instructions and supervision. Exclusively breastfeed or provide an iron-fortified formula when she is younger than six months to ensure she has adequate iron in her diet. After six months she can receive iron-rich foods.
