Iron is considered one of the main nutrients responsible for the growth and development of kids, let it be physical or psychological. Iron deficiency affects hemoglobin levels in a child’s body, which can further lead to a plethora of health problems. The iron requirements in kids differ age-wise.
Iron deficiency can lead to many health problems in kids although, parents concentrate more on adding vitamins and proteins to a child’s diet and often ignore the role of iron efficient diet like leafy vegetables like spinach, beans, lentils, cashews, whole grains. Iron is one of the main elements that help in the development of the brain in kids.
As per a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology And Metabolism, in infants and young children, severe chronic anemia may lead to delayed growth and long-term effects on neurodevelopment and behavior, mediated by changes in neurotransmitter myelination, monoamine metabolism in the striatum, functioning of the hippocampus, and energy metabolism.
Why there is a need for Iron?
Iron deficiency reduces Red Blood cells count and the size of the cell is also affected. due to this oxygen-carrying capacity of the cells decreases in the body.
Iron deficiency leads to anemia condition and in such a situation a child should be given Iron, Supplements, Folic acid, Vitamin C & B, Protein.
Signs and symptoms of Iron deficiency in kids:
- Loss of appetite and hunger
- Stunted growth and development
- Uneven breathing
- A child is prone to infections
- Weakness
- Pale skin, eyes, and nails
- Kids are irritated and inactive all the time
How much Iron is needed for kids?
- Dr. Latika says a child who is breastfed doesn’t need iron till 6 months as the mother’s milk is a complete food. In some conditions, if a child doesn’t get enough iron through mother’s milk, a pediatrician suggests iron drops iron-fortified formula milk.
- In general conditions a child between 7-12 months should be given daily 11 mg of iron, 1-3 years 7 mg, 4-8 years 10 mg, and a child that of 9-13 years should be given 8 mg of iron daily.
- A boy above 11 years should be given 11 mg of iron, a girl should consume 15 mg of iron daily; girls require more iron than boys during adolescent years.
Sources of Iron in our Food:
Vegetables: Green leafy vegetables, fruits like Apple, Pomegranate, and Fig, pulses, beetroot, dry fruits like raisins, black raisins, and dates.
Non-Vegetables: Eggs, Organ meat like liver, fish, chicken, turkey, red meat, mutton, or lamb
Also Read: Nutrition for Gifted Child
Why do kids get Iron deficiency?
- Premature birth
- Kids who are not breastfed and are given cow or goat milk
- Kids who drink non-iron formula milk
- Extreme health conditions
