Iron needs of babies
Our bodies need iron to make hemoglobin, which takes oxygen through the blood to all the cells. Hemoglobin is what gives colour to red blood cells. When you don’t have enough iron, red blood cells become small and pale, a condition called anemia. They can’t carry enough oxygen to your body’s organs and muscles.
Babies and children need iron for their brains to develop normally.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency in babies?
When babies don’t get enough iron, they may show these signs:
- Slow weight gain.
- Pale skin.
- No appetite.
- Irritability (cranky, fussy).
Babies with an iron deficiency may be less physically active and may develop more slowly.
In children, iron deficiency can affect how they do in school. Not having enough iron can lead to problems concentrating, a shorter attention span, and poor academic performance. Low iron levels can make you feel tired and weak.
How much iron do babies and children need?
Babies are born with a reserve of iron, which comes from their mother’s blood while they are in the womb.
For the first 6 months of life, breastfed babies will get what they need from their mother’s milk. If breast-feeding is not an option, use a store-bought iron-fortified infant formula for the first 9 to 12 months. The formula should be cow’s milk-based. Once babies start eating solid foods, the amount of iron they need depends on their age. (
Table 1)

Table 1
Health Canada defines the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) as the average daily dietary nutrient intake level sufficient to meet the nutrient requirement of nearly all (97% to 98%) healthy individuals.
SOURCE: Developed by the Canadian Paediatric Society Nutrition Committee