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Studies in iron supplementation of preschool children
Insights
Daily iron supplements improved preschool children's iron status but did not affect growth or activity. A significant percentage still had low hemoglobin levels after 7-12 months, indicating persistent iron deficiency anemia risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Hematology
- Public Health
Background:
- Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent global health issue in preschool children.
- Adequate iron intake is crucial for cognitive development and overall health.
- Previous studies highlight the need for effective iron supplementation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of inorganic iron supplementation on preschool children's hematological status, growth, and activity.
- To assess the efficacy of daily ferrous sulfate in improving iron biomarkers.
- To identify the prevalence of low hemoglobin levels despite iron supplementation.
Main Methods:
- A controlled study involving preschool children receiving daily iron (20-30 mg) or placebo.
- Monitoring of hematological parameters (hemoglobin, serum iron, transferrin saturation) over 3.5, 7, and 12 months.
- Assessment of physical growth (height) and activity levels in both supplemented and control groups.
Main Results:
- Iron supplementation significantly increased hemoglobin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation.
- Unsaturated iron-binding capacity was significantly reduced in the iron-supplemented group.
- No significant differences in height or activity levels were observed between groups.
- Despite supplementation, 45% of children had hemoglobin below 110 g/l at 7-12 months.
Conclusions:
- Daily iron supplementation effectively improves iron status in preschool children.
- Iron supplementation alone does not appear to influence physical growth or activity levels.
- A substantial proportion of children remain at risk for iron deficiency anemia, suggesting a need for further investigation and intervention strategies.
Abstract:
1. The effect of daily supplements of 20-30 mg inorganic iron as ferrous sulphate on the growth, activity and haematological status of preschool children was studied for 3.5, 7 and 12 months and compared to that of children who served as controls. All children were given their daily requirements of energy and protein. In addition, they received 5 microgram cyanocobalamin and 200 microgram folic acid. 2. Fe supplementation increased the haemoglobin, serum Fe and percentage saturation of transferrin and reduced the unsaturated Fe-binding capacity significantly compared to corresponding values for the controls. 3. Height and activity were unaffected by Fe supplements. 4. Of the children 45% had haemoglobin values below 110 g/l at the end of 7-12 months of Fe supplementation.