Iron-deficiency anaemia occurs when there is insufficient iron in the diet. Children are especially susceptible to anemia during periods of rapid growth, when they need extra iron that they don’t always get.
It is important not to let your child of one year and older drink more than 600-700ml of cow’s milk. Milk provides important nutrients in your child’s diet but it’s low in iron, and it interferes with the body’s absorption of iron.
Feed your child iron-rich lean meat such as minced beef, chicken breast and lamb. Iron-fortified cereal such as Weetabix, Cheerios, Ready Brek and Special K is also a good source of Iron for Children.
When choosing bread offer wholemeal bread that contains iron as apposed to white bread and include lentils in your child’s diet, by adding to soups and stews.
Include leafy green vegetables that are rich in iron by adding to pesto or including in a pasta vegetable sauce.
Throughout the day, offer plenty of fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C (like oranges, strawberries, kiwi and avocado), which helps the body absorb iron, and don’t let your child drink tea as this can effect’s the absorption of iron from food.
Remember, your child’s favorite baked beans are rich in iron, and you can now buy low-in-salt and sugar versions.
Iron supplements are helpful in many instances, but too much iron can be poisonous, so always consult your doctor before giving your child iron supplements.
If you are looking for more information on feeding your child check us out on MummyCooks.ie.
