Iron is an essential mineral that you can’t do without. It’s found in every cell in the body and helps to carry oxygen throughout your system. It’s vital that your little one gets enough so they can grow and develop normally. Iron is also an important part of energy metabolism (that’s why you feel tired if you don’t have enough) and is necessary for the immune system. Babies who don't get enough iron can have decreased immunity and they could even have further problems down the track like poor physical development or learning skills (Ministry of Health. 2008. Food and Nutrition Guidelines for Healthy Infants and Toddlers (Aged 0-2):A background paper (4th Ed).Wellington: Ministry of Health).
Your baby is born with a natural supply of iron, which starts to run out around six months. Around this age they’ll actually need more iron than an adult, so as they move onto baby cereals and other solids make sure they’re getting enough of the iron rich foods.
Causes of Iron Deficiency
There are several different factors that can contribute to iron deficiency. Here are some common ones:
- Solids and iron rich foods are introduced too late into a baby’s diet.
- Cow’s milk is given instead of breast milk or formula – cow's milk is a poor source of iron
- Tea, cola drinks or coffee contain tannins which bind iron in food and make it unable to be absorbed
- A diet that’s too high in fibre – while it’s a really important nutrient, too much fibre 'binds' with iron and stops it from being absorbed.
- Sickness like gastroenteritis and other infections and illnesses can cause iron deficiency. Some premature babies may not have developed a sufficient store of iron before they were born – ask your well child or Plunket nurse or GP if you’re worried about your baby.
