r child should have a balanced diet that includes daily portions of iron-rich foods, such as:
Interestingly, the body absorbs iron from animal sources such as meats better than iron from plant sources. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) also helps the intestine absorb iron more efficiently. Serve iron-rich foods with drinks or foods that are high in vitamin C. Examples include: orange juice, citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, and melon.
Anemia can be easily detected with a simple blood test. Different organizations have different recommendations regarding routine screening for anemia. Often children are checked for the first time at about one year of age. If your child is at higher risk, it may be done earlier. Let your child's doctor know if you are concerned that your child has anemia or is at risk for anemia.
The exact amount of iron needed in the diets of children varies depending on age and gender. For example, because teen girls lose iron through menstrual blood, they need more iron than teen boys. Here are some basics on how much iron children need at various ages:
Age of Child
|7-12 months||11 mg||11 mg|
|1-3 years||7 mg||7 mg|
|4-8 years||10 mg||10 mg|
|9-13 years||8 mg||8 mg|
|14-18 years||15 mg||11 mg|
If your child is anemic, talk to the doctor to make sure that your child is eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in iron-containing foods.
If the doctor thinks that your child needs to take iron supplements, you should ask which form of iron your child should take. There are many types on the market, and you may need to try several to find one that your child tolerates. The doctor may encourage you to give your child a food or beverage containing vitamin C along with the iron supplement to improve its absorption. If your child has any stomach upset from the supplement, you may be asked to give smaller doses several times a day.
If you are giving your child iron supplements, carefully follow the doctor's instructions. Iron at doses that are higher than the ones listed in the table above can cause serious symptoms in children. Never give more than the amount prescribed, even if you have accidentally missed a dose.
Iron supplements are a leading cause of poisoning deaths in young children. Even though our bodies need a certain amount of iron, excess iron can kill—especially when small children swallow iron supplements intended for use by adults. To keep your child safe, put the supplements on the highest shelf of your cabinet, preferably in a locked cupboard. The supplement should also be in a marked container with a child-resistant lid.
If you think that your child may have taken an overdose of iron supplements or other multivitamins that contain iron, immediately contact the Poison Control Center, the doctor, or the nearest hospital’s emergency department.
American Academy of Pediatrics
United States Department of Agriculture
About Kids Health
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