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. 2019 Dec;24(8):555-556.
doi: 10.1093/pch/pxz148. Epub 2019 Dec 9.

Iron requirements in the first 2 years of life

[Article in English, French]
Sharon L Unger  1 , Tanis R Fenton  1 , Radha Jetty  1 , Jeff N Critch  1 , Deborah L O'connor  1
Affiliations

Iron requirements in the first 2 years of life

[Article in English, French]
Sharon L Unger et al. Paediatr Child Health. 2019 Dec.

Abstract

Iron is an essential micronutrient required for hemoglobin synthesis, central nervous system development, and protection from infection. Early childhood is a time of vulnerability as iron deficiency in this period is associated with impaired neurodevelopment. Low socioeconomic status, preterm birth, and suboptimal diet are risk factors for iron deficiency. Due to a lack of iron excretory mechanism, the possibility of iron excess also exists. Appropriate iron intake in the first 2 years of life is critical.

Keywords: Anemia; Complementary feeding; Infant nutrition; Iron deficiency; Iron requirements.

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