Iron is the most common nutrient inadequacy in children. The combination of their increased iron requirement to support growth and development and poor dietary intake of iron rich foods can mean that they aren't meeting their daily iron requirement. And day after day, this adds up!
Signs of low iron include fatigue, poor concentration, and poor memory, all of which may affect cognitive and social function. (1) Children who aren't getting enough iron may also exhibit symptoms of pica; cravings for non-food substances such as soap and dirt, and pasophagia; cravings for ice. (1)
Iron requirements
Most children require more iron daily than an adult man! See the recommended daily intakes below.
- Boys & Girls (1-3 years) 9 mg
- Boys & Girls (4-8 years) 10 mg
- Boys & Girls (9-13 years) 8 mg
- Boys (14-18 years) 11 mg
- Girls (14-18 years) 15 mg (2)
Why is iron Important?
Essentially it's about making red blood cells (AKA blood) and supporting this bloods ability to carry much needed oxygen around the body.
Iron's "sciencey" functions
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Assist healthy red blood cell production
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Support blood health
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Helps support transport of oxygen in the body
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Aid oxygen transport to body tissues
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Helps support haemoglobin formation/synthesis
Iron Supplements
If dietary intake is inadequate, iron supplementation might help to fill the gaps.
Iron bisglycinate is what is known as an amino acid bound mineral. It is made of an iron molecule and two glycine (an amino acid) molecules. Imagine it like a cheese sandwich- two slices of bread (glycine) and a slice of cheese (the iron). Being amino acid bounds, means it is easily absorbed in the small intestines and less likely to cause constipation than other forms such as ferrous sulphate. (1)
There are lots of great reasons why we use iron bisglycinate in iron immunity, discover more here.
Iron Immunity helps support immune system health and blood health in children. Contains milk. Not for the treatment of iron deficiency conditions. Dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.
References
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Perveen A, Raja NF, Khan IM, Shaheen H, Imran M, Ahmad RS. Comparison of Conventional and Newer Iron Preparations for the Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Children. Journal of Rawalpindi Medical College. 2020 Jun 26;24(2):112-6.
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National Health and Medical Research Council. Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand: Iron. Canberra: NHMRC; 2014 [updated]. Available from: https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/iron
