IRON DEFICIENCY IN CHILDREN

In fact, unless the mother has severe anemia, healthy full-term babies are typically born with sufficient iron stores and do not develop iron deficiency anemia during the first 6 months. However, after 6 months, external iron supplementation is necessary. The main causes of iron deficiency anemia include rapid growth, insufficient iron in the diet, and a diet heavily based on milk. The risk of iron deficiency is unfortunately higher in multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.) and in premature babies.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms may include irritability, loss of appetite, excessive sleepiness, fatigue, and pale skin. In some cases, it may also manifest through increased heart rate, constipation, weight loss, delayed growth, and decline in behavior and cognitive functions. If your baby exhibits any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

How Is Anemia Treated in Children?

While iron deficiency can lead to serious problems if left untreated, the treatment is actually quite simple. Treatment typically begins with oral iron supplements. Within two months, the child usually returns to normal, but to replenish iron stores fully, treatment must continue for a longer period—sometimes up to a year. In infants, iron is usually administered in the form of syrup or drops.

Even after treatment ends, regular blood tests should be done to monitor iron levels. This helps prevent more serious health issues from developing as your child grows.

Our Recommendation:

If your baby is under 6 months old, you should feed them exclusively with breast milk. The exceptional nutritional content of breast milk plays a vital role in maintaining healthy iron levels. If breastfeeding is not possible, choose iron-fortified formulas. Starting from the 6th month, you can introduce solid foods. As your baby grows, ensure their diet includes iron-rich foods such as legumes, leafy green vegetables, red and white meats, and liver. To increase iron absorption, don't forget to include vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, tomatoes, and lemons.