Risk of Iron Deficiency in Children

To prevent iron deficiency, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends only iron-fortified formula (unless instructed otherwise by a physician). Contrary to popular belief, the amount of iron in iron-fortified formula is too small to cause constipation or other gastrointestinal upset, so using low iron formulas is not necessary.

After six months of age, your baby needs even more iron, both from iron-fortified formula and from solid foods.

Does your baby eat iron-fortified infant cereal? Yes, my baby eats iron-fortified cereal. No, my baby is not yet eating iron-fortified cereal.

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Online Medical Reviewer: Faculty of Harvard Medical School Date Last Reviewed: 6/18/2006 Date Last Modified: 6/12/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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