Ensuring your little one’s iron stores remain fully stocked I

WAS severely anaemic during the last stages of my pregnancy. Does my three- week- old baby need to be tested for low iron levels now or in the future? Should I give him iron supplements? Ann, Mount Louisa Iron

levels in young children are important. Low iron has been associated with some impairment in a baby’s development. There are a number of risk factors for a baby to develop iron deficiency.

In a healthy mother and baby, the baby is born with enough iron stores to last for the first few months of life. Though breast milk and should be fed with breast milk or infant formula as well as solids. It is important to note babies should not be given cows milk before 12 months. If babies are given cows milk, there is often irritation to the gut and some blood loss leading to iron deficiency and anaemia. It is recommended babies are only given breast milk or infant formula before 12 months of age.

If the baby is born prematurely or is very small then iron stores at birth are lower, which can mean the baby will become iron deficient earlier as the baby grows and depletes iron stores. In these cases, iron supplementation is usually recommended.

In the case where a baby is born to a mother who is anaemic due to iron deficiency, the baby will usually still have good stores of iron at birth. The mother’s body ensures the baby gets enough iron, even as she is running low. If there are concerns, you should see your GP so they can check for iron- deficiency anaemia.