Our 5 Top Tips for Increasing Iron Absorption

Our 5 Top Dietary Tips for Increasing Iron Absorption

We’ve talked a lot about iron and it’s importance in the healthy growth and development of children. You can read this posts here >> Boosting your child’s iron absorption (including iron rich recipes)

For children who are fussy with food (especially meat), have low iron levels or are vegetarian, here are our 5 top tips to help increase iron intake and absorption:

1. Breastfeed exclusively during the first 4-6 months.  For babies weaned early from the breast or formula fed from birth introduce an iron-fortified formula if you can
2. Wait until your child is at least 9-12 months before introducing cow’s milk and for those little milk-lovers try to limit the amount to a maximum of 600ml per day.  This helps to encourage your child to have an appetite for solid foods. Remember: cow’s milk shouldn’t be your child’s main drink before 12 months
3. Try to include red meat (the richest source of iron) meals in your child’s diet 3-4 x per week and iron-rich foods in your child’s diet every day
4. Include a serve of vitamin C-rich fruits or vegetables with each meal to boost iron absorption. For many this may mean you offer fruit as part of your child’s main meals rather than between meals as a snack
5. Keep dairy, such as yoghurt, as a meal on it’s own, say for afternoon tea. Try not to offer milk when your children are eating their main meals, give it a good hour before you offer milk.  This will help to keep both iron and calcium absorption high.

These tips were featured in our Autumn/Back to School issue of our Magazine. To find out more about our popular magazines or to purchase online see the links below:

Launch magazine 

Back to School Magazine 

Winter Warmers Magazine

Disclaimer:  This information is intended for general use only.  It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to replace the personalised care and advice given to you by your health professional team. You as the reader/parent/caregiver must always discuss any concerns or questions about the health and well being of your baby or toddler with a healthcare professional.  Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
*If you suspect iron deficiency in your child please consult your GP or paediatrician for diagnosis.