How Much Iron does a Child Need?

Iron is vital for the formation of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a necessary component of red blood cells and RBC carries oxygen to all cells of the body. Hence it is necessary for kids and children to have enough iron in their diet.

Requirement of iron is different at different stages of life. Parents must know how much iron their children need at a particular age.

Breast-feed infant get enough amount of iron from his mother until 6 months. After 6 months infant needs an extra 11ml of iron a day till his first birthday. Infants from 1-4 years of age need 7ml of iron a day. 10ml of iron/day is required until infant becomes an adolescent. Adolescent needs 11ml – 15 ml of iron. In addition, girls need extra amount of iron during menstruating.

Iron deficiency causes anemia. Anemia grows slowly in an undetected manner in most of the people.

Some of the symptoms of iron deficiency are as follows:
Weakness and fatigue
Mucous membranes and pale skin
Heart murmur and rapid heartbeat
Irritability
A decrease in appetite
Dizziness
Feelings of lightheadedness

If any of the above mentioned symptoms is present in your child, consult the physician immediately. He will simply do a blood test to determine if your child lack in iron. He may prescribe your child iron supplements. But, bear in mind, excessive intake of iron may also result health problems.

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