Many babies have anemia as a consequence of low iron levels in the blood. This is what is known as iron deficiency anemia. Although it may seem very important, especially in the case of babies, you must remain calm and follow the recommendations of the pediatrician. Generally, this problem is solved with an iron supplement for a few days.
Babies who are breastfed they are less likely to be anemic, as are babies fed formula that is usually fortified in iron. However, babies who drink cow's milk are those at greatest risk of anemia, since this milk contains the least amount of iron. In addition, cow's milk interferes with the absorption of iron in the body.
Why is iron so important?
The body needs iron to stay healthy and active. This mineral is responsible for the production of hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is responsible for transporting oxygen to all tissues, therefore, when there is an iron deficiency, this function is not fulfilled correctly. The lack of iron causes problems with concentration, fatigue or loss of energy among other symptoms.
Why is my baby anemic?
At birth, the baby has good iron stores that it has obtained from the mother during pregnancy. These reserves are sufficient until the little one is approximately 6 months old. From that age, the way the baby is fed will determine the probability of anemia. By 6 months, the child's development undergoes an important advance that goes hand in hand with his new way of eating.
With the introduction of food, it's time to include foods rich in iron so that the new needs of the little one are covered correctly. The change of diet is usually the culprit for the iron deficiency, since during the time that the baby is fed exclusively on milk (breast or formula) the iron needs are well covered.
How Anemia is Treated in Babies
The pediatrician can easily observe the symptoms of anemia in the baby, since it is usually associated with a growth problem, lack of energy or paleness in areas such as the lips or on the inside of the eyelids. To confirm this, you will need to do a blood test on the baby to check this and other levels. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the pediatrician will prescribe an iron supplement that the baby should take every day for as long as the doctor deems appropriate.
This can go on for a few weeks and even months., but do not worry because it is generally effective and you will quickly notice improvement in your baby. For the iron supplement to be really effective, it is advisable that the baby take it on an empty stomach and mixed with a food rich in vitamin C. You can mix the supplement with a little natural orange juice, so it will have a more pleasant taste and it will favor the absorption of the mineral in the organism.
You should never mix iron with milk or with derivatives dairy, since milk interferes with the assimilation of iron. For this reason, when the baby eats foods rich in iron, it is best to accompany it with a citrus fruit. In this article You will find more information about mixing foods, to get the maximum benefits from them.
Healthy eating is essential throughout life, but especially during pregnancy, lactation and in children in growth period. While you are pregnant, you must provide your baby with all the necessary nutrients to be able to develop properly. As in the lactation period. Because if you eat correctly your baby will receive all the iron, vitamins and nutrients necessary to grow healthy and strong.