Always consult your healthcare provider prior to giving this or any supplement to your infant.
Iron is an essential nutrient for babies. It is vital in the production of muscle cells and red blood cells that carry oxygen through the body. It also helps to prevent iron deficiency anemia. This condition is a common problem in little ones. It can range from mild to serious. Without treatment, it can affect a child’s growth and development.
Babies at highest risk of iron deficiency:
- Are born prematurely or have a low birth weight.
- Drink cow's milk or goat's milk before age of one. And ages 1 to 5 who drink more than 24 oz. of cow’s milk, goat’s milk or soy milk daily.
- Aren’t given other foods that contain iron after age 6 months.
- Drink formula that isn’t fortified with iron.
- Have certain health conditions, such as chronic infections or restricted diets.
- Have been exposed to lead.
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia might include:
- Light pink color, also called pallor, to the lips, gums, edge of the eyelids or to the nail beds.
- Tiredness and low energy, also called fatigue.
- Shortness of breath during exercise.
- Cold hands and feet.
- Slowed growth and development.
- Poor appetite.
- Irregular rapid breathing.
- Behavior issues.
- Frequent infections.
- Unusual cravings for things that contain few or no nutrients, such as ice, dirt, paint or starch.