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Effect on haematological and anthropometric parameters of iron supplementation in the first 2 years of life. Risks

L Capozzi1, R Russo, F Bertocco

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Second University of Naples, Second University, Via de Crecchio 4, Naples, Italy.

Hematology (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|September 10, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Iron supplementation (IS) showed no growth benefits in healthy children. Breastfed infants had lower iron levels, but iron-fortified formulas or foods did not improve growth outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Nutrition Science
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Iron deficiency is a concern in infants, particularly those exclusively breastfed.
  • Various methods exist to ensure adequate iron intake in early childhood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effects of different iron supplementation strategies on hematological and anthropometric parameters in healthy children from 6 to 24 months.
  • To compare exclusively breastfed infants with those receiving iron-fortified formulas or oral iron supplementation.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 121 healthy children was followed from 6 to 24 months.
  • Children were randomly assigned to four groups: non-iron fortified foods, iron-fortified formulas/foods, exclusively iron-fortified foods, or oral iron supplementation.
  • Hematological (Hb, MCV, ferritin, transferrin saturation) and anthropometric (length, weight) parameters were measured at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months.

Main Results:

  • Exclusively breastfed infants had significantly lower hematological parameters compared to other groups.
  • Infants receiving iron-fortified formulas/foods showed lower hematological values than those on oral iron supplementation.
  • Children receiving oral iron supplementation exhibited significantly lower length measurements.

Conclusions:

  • Iron supplementation may offer limited or no benefit for growth in non-iron deficient children.
  • While exclusive breastfeeding was associated with lower iron levels, specific supplementation strategies require careful consideration regarding growth impacts.

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