Iron supplementation means giving iron drops to babies who are at risk of iron deficiency, such as some exclusively breastfed babies, babies born early or those with low iron levels. Babies are born with iron stores that start to run low in the second half of the first year.
Key takeaways
- The CDC advises asking your child's doctor whether iron drops are needed before 6 months.
- Standard iron-fortified infant formula meets iron needs for the first year.
- From around 6 months, iron-rich foods are important for all babies.
Which foods are rich in iron?
Iron from meat, fish, poultry and eggs is absorbed most easily. Iron-fortified infant cereals, beans, lentils, tofu and dark green vegetables also provide iron, especially when served with vitamin C-rich foods such as tomatoes, citrus or berries.
What you can do
- Ask your doctor about iron at check-ups, especially if your baby was born early or is exclusively breastfed.
- Give iron drops only at the dose your doctor recommends.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your baby seems pale, unusually tired, irritable or is feeding poorly. Keep iron supplements out of reach, as an overdose is dangerous for children.
