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A Systematic Review of Isotopically Measured Iron Absorption in Infants and Children Under 2 Years

Samantha Gallahan1, Stephanie Brower1, Hannah Wapshott-Stehli2

  • 1Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33602, USA.

Nutrients
|November 27, 2024
PubMed

Insights

This review confirms oral iron supplementation is recommended for infants. Breast milk iron is well-absorbed, while cow

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Iron Metabolism
  • Infant Health

Background:

  • Iron is vital for infant growth and brain development; deficiency and excess have adverse effects.
  • Understanding iron absorption in infants is crucial for optimal health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively assess current evidence on isotopic iron absorption in children and infants up to 24 months.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search of major databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus) from 1953-2024.
  • Inclusion of experimental studies measuring iron absorption using isotopic techniques.
  • Risk of bias assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Main Results:

  • 37 studies with 1531 participants were included, analyzing iron absorption, milk feeding types, supplementation strategies, and complementary foods.
  • Breast milk iron shows high bioavailability; unmodified cow's milk impairs absorption.
  • Ascorbic acid enhances iron absorption; lactoferrin and prebiotics show promise but need more research.

Conclusions:

  • Current oral iron supplementation guidelines are supported.
  • Supplemental iron is necessary for healthy full-term infants (4-6 months) and preterm infants earlier.
  • Further research on iron absorption in preterm infants is a priority.
Abstract

Keywords:
childreninfantironiron absorptioniron isotopeiron supplementsnutritionpreterm infant

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