Pediatria pre prax 5/2009

Iron deficit in toddlers – causes and prevention

Elimination of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in children is a serious public health concern because these conditions have been linked to long-term cognitive and behavioral deficits. In the infant age group, great efforts have been made to reduce iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia significantly. However, similar progress has not yet been made with toddlers. Unmodified cow’s milk consumption has long been associated with iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in children. Because cow’s milk is a major part in the diet of most toddlers, they are at particular risk for these conditions. Food fortification is a low-cost, relatively simple strategy that may reach a wide range of people, and contribute to reducing the high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies affecting children. Continued consumption during of milk fortified with specific micronutrients (particularly with iron) can significantly reduce the burden of these conditions also on toddlers.

Keywords: cow milk, milk formulas, iron deficit, toddlers.