Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder worldwide. Approximately 30 to 50 percent of people worldwide suffer from iron deficiency anemia, with most of them living in developing countries.
Important Causes of Iron Deficiency in Children:
- Excessive cow's milk consumption: Cow's milk consumption before one year of age, as well as excessive consumption of cow's milk (approximately more than 1 liter per day) after one year of age, is an important risk factor for iron deficiency.
- Bleeding
- Periods of rapid growth
Common Clinical Symptoms:
- Pale skin
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Shortness of breath during physical activity and exercise
- Irritability and aggression
- Loss of appetite
If any of these symptoms are present, the child should see a pediatrician for further evaluation and laboratory testing.
Which Children Are More Likely to Develop Iron Deficiency?
- Low birth weight
- Preterm infants
- Children during periods of rapid growth, such as infancy and puberty
- Children with cyanotic heart disease
- Children who had low hemoglobin levels at birth
- Introduction of cow's milk before one year of age
- Early introduction of solid foods
- Low vitamin C intake
- Low intake of red meat
- Breastfed infants older than 6 months who are not receiving iron supplementation
When Should Iron Drops Be Started?
To prevent iron deficiency, iron supplementation should be started at 4 months of age and continued until at least 2 years of age.
Important Recommendations When Taking Iron Supplements:
- Iron supplementation should always be taken under a physician's supervision so that the appropriate type and dose can be determined.
- It is better to take iron with a source of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, or cantaloupe, to improve iron absorption.
- Milk and calcium-containing foods should be avoided for at least 30 minutes before and after taking iron, as they can interfere with iron absorption.
- The mouth and teeth should be rinsed or brushed after taking iron supplements.
- Iron supplements may turn the stool black. If the stool becomes black and there are no other symptoms, the supplement can generally be continued without concern.
Pediatric Hematologist & Oncologist
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