Importance of Iron
Iron is an important mineral needed by the body for
the production of red blood cells. The role of red blood cells is to carry
oxygen to various organs of the body. Without sufficient red blood cells, the
circulation of oxygen in the body will be limited, thus hindering the organs
from doing their job as needed.
How Much Iron Do Kids Require?
The amount of
iron a child requires depends on their age, gender and activities. Infants up to 6
months usually receive adequate iron from their mother's milk, or from
iron-fortified formula.
11 mg / day
|
|
1 to 3 years
|
7 mg / day
|
4 to 8 years
|
10 mg / day
|
9 to 13 years
|
8 mg / day
|
14 to 18 years
|
|
Boys
|
11 mg / day
|
Girls
|
15 mg / day
|
When children are
not getting the required amount of iron each day, they can suffer diseases such
as iron-deficiency anaemia. There will be a decrease in red blood cell
production, which can affect several organ systems. In infants and toddlers,
this can affect their motor and mental function, leading to learning and
behavioural problems.
Adolescent girls
who are undergoing menstrual bleeding are at risk of being iron deficient if
they are unable to receive enough iron prior to their period. Toddlers who are
drinking cow's milk may also not be getting sufficient iron as cow's milk
doesn't have enough iron to meet their needs.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency may not necessarily show
during the early stages. However, when the amount of red blood cells in the
body is significantly low, you may notice that your child is:
- Feeling weak and fatigued
- Irritable and has mood swings
- Not eating well, or is experiencing appetite loss
- Turning pale
- Constantly feeling dizzy
Sources
of Iron
Teaching your child to maintain a healthy diet will help ensure that they will be getting enough nutrients for their daily needs. To make sure that they receive sufficient iron, food items that you should consider adding to their diet are:
Teaching your child to maintain a healthy diet will help ensure that they will be getting enough nutrients for their daily needs. To make sure that they receive sufficient iron, food items that you should consider adding to their diet are:
- Tuna
- Dried fruits
- Dried beans and peas
- Eggs
- Tofu
- Leafy, green vegetables
- Red meat
- Iron-fortified products, such as cereals, bread and milk formula
