Iron as a supplement in infant food - Absorption scenario

Introduction - Iron is an essential nutrient that serves various important functions.?Infants require an appropriate supply of essential nutrients for growth and development in the first year of their life. Iron helps in carrying oxygen and helps in the development of muscles and other tissues. Iron deficiency is also; observed in infants having iron sufficient meals because of lesser iron absorption in the body. Paediatricians sometimes recommend iron supplements to balance the iron levels in the body if infants do not consume iron-rich food naturally.

Do you know, iron concentrations are low in human milk but breastfeeding infants (4-6 months) don’t suffer from iron deficiency, why? Because even the iron content is less but the bioavailability (active effect) leads to high absorption.

Is baby food a good iron supplement?

According to studies, infant cereals and food might contain an appropriate amount of whole grains and ascorbic acid; however, iron absorption percentage is uncertain. In infant food supplements iron exists as sodium iron pyrophosphate and ferric orthophosphate. These two were claimed to be a ‘poorly absorbed’ category and cannot be a promising source of iron for nutritional needs.

Types of Iron-rich sources

Iron is a crucial building block key of haemoglobin and is responsible for regularizing oxygen levels. Hence, it is important to explore the sources of iron.

Iron exists in two forms- Heme and Non-Heme. Heme Iron can be found in meat, fish, chicken and other animal foods. This shows greater bioavailability as iron obtained from these sources is readily absorbed by the body. Non-Heme Iron is obtained from plant sources-vegetables, grains etc. Plant sources rich in iron can be cereals, oats, dark green vegetables, apricots, beans and grains.

Furthermore, iron supplements are recommended to older breastfed infants and iron absorption differs in each case. Healthy toddlers are not the ones with high food intake. Infants eating less but well-balanced meals and having a healthy absorption of nutrients is an ideal case.

What increases iron absorption?

Infants suffering from iron deficiency need appropriate attention, high nutrient density food with proper iron content and high bio-availability. It is important to know that some food might help in better absorption of iron. Yes, they work as catalysts!

So, here is a list of food that helps you absorb more iron-

??????Studies show that adding Vitamin A to your meal can increase the absorption of iron. Vitamin A also helps with bone growth and healthy vision.

??????Vitamin C rich food enhances iron absorption. It can store non-heme iron and increases easy absorption ability. Studies claim that 100 mg of Vitamin C with a meal increases iron absorption by 67%.

What should not be taken with iron supplements?

Some foods are also responsible for hindering iron absorption just like some food sources improve it.

Food sources containing below listed elements decrease the iron absorption-

??????Phytate (whole grain, legumes etc)

??????Calcium-rich food

??????Polyphenol food sources (beverages)

Medical treatment for iron deficiency infants

Iron deficiency is the most prevalent micro nutrient deficiency in the world. It is responsible for insufficient and adverse effects on child health and development. You are advised to immediately contact an expert if your child is suffering from shortness of breath, eats less, feels weak frequently, complains about headaches or has pale skin.

Paediatricians advise a high iron diet and supplements depending upon the age, weight and condition of the child.

Conclusion

According to the research, iron absorption increases if given in small portions mixed with juice and not milk (because it inhibits the absorption). Absorption of iron as a supplement from infant cereal is claimed to be poorly absorbed (especially with milk as it contains calcium) hence, it cannot be considered a dependable source to meet sufficient nutrients needed by the child. However, Infant Feeding Practices to enhance iron absorption can be planned strategically by a pediatrician’s advice and research about packed food. Just know that every captivating presentation or advertisement about infant food is not worth your child’s health. Choose carefully!?