Iron is an important mineral involved in several aspects of health. In fact, the body needs iron in order to make hemoglobin, an iron-containing protein in the red blood cells (RBCs) that helps deliver oxygen throughout the body. Without hemoglobin, the body will stop producing healthy RBCs, and without enough iron, your child’s muscles, tissues, and cells won’t get the oxygen they need.

Most babies are born with their own iron stores. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends supplementing iron after 4 months for exclusively breastfed babies. Bottle-fed infants typically receive a formula fortified with iron.

But when your older infant switches to eating more solid foods, they might not be eating enough iron-rich foods, which puts them at risk for iron deficiency anemia.

Iron deficiency can hinder your child’s growth. It may also cause:

Iron is also important for the immune system, so not getting enough iron could even increase the risk of infections like the cold and flu.

Read on to learn more about the importance of for children and how to know if your child is getting enough.

Ideally, kids should get their iron and other vitamins from a balanced, nutrient-dense diet. If they eat enough iron-rich foods, an iron supplement may not be needed.

Examples of foods high in iron include:

  • red meats, including beef, organ meats, and liver
  • turkey, pork, and chicken
  • fish
  • fortified cereals, including oatmeal
  • dark green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, and spinach
  • beans
  • prunes

However, some children are at a higher risk for iron deficiency and may need to take a supplement.

The following circumstances could put your child at higher risk for an iron deficiency:

  • picky eaters who aren’t eating regular, well-balanced meals
  • children eating a mostly vegetarian or vegan diet
  • medical conditions that prevent the absorption of nutrients, including intestinal diseases and chronic infections
  • low birth weight and premature infants
  • children born to mothers who were iron-deficient
  • kids who drink too much cow’s milk
  • exposure to lead
  • young athletes who exercise often
  • older children and young teenagers going through rapid growth during puberty
  • adolescent girls who lose blood during menstruation

It’s important to talk with your doctor before giving iron supplements to your child. Checking for anemia should be part of your child’s regular health exam, but be sure to ask your doctor if you have any concerns.

Your pediatrician will conduct a physical examination of your child and ask if they’re showing any of the signs of an iron deficiency, including:

Your doctor might also take a small sample of blood to check your child’s red blood cells. If your child’s doctor diagnoses an iron deficiency, they will prescribe iron to treat it. They may also recommend a supplement if your child is at risk for iron deficiency.

Iron is a vital nutrient for a rapidly growing child, and the recommended daily intake of iron varies by age. Here’s how much iron your child needs:

  • 1–3 years old: 7 milligrams per day
  • 4–8 years old: 10 milligrams per day
  • 9–13 years old: 8 milligrams per day

Keep in mind that too much iron can be toxic. While the Upper Limit for healthy children under age 14 years is set at 40 milligrams a day, physicians sometimes prescribe higher doses in cases of deficiency.

Iron supplements for adults contain far too much iron to give to your young child, with some products providing up to 100 milligrams in a single dose. There are many supplements available in tablet or liquid formulations that are specifically designed for young children.

Under your doctor’s supervision, try the following safe supplements:

Liquid drops

Liquid supplements work well because the body absorbs them easily, and your child won’t have to swallow a pill.

The bottle typically comes with a dropper with markings on the tube to indicate the dosage level, which makes it easy to squirt the liquid straight into your child’s mouth. Iron supplements can stain your child’s teeth, so be sure to brush their teeth after giving any liquid iron supplement.

Try a liquid supplement. Some brands are flavored with natural flavors like grape and sugar-free.

Syrups

Some iron supplements come in syrup form, making them easier to safely measure and administer with a spoon or dropper.

Chewables

For some kids, a tasty chewable supplement may be the way to go. They’re sweet, easy to eat, and typically contain many vitamins in the same tablet. However, these vitamins typically have a relatively low dose of iron compared to their other ingredients.

It’s also important to remember to keep the bottle locked away and out of the reach of your children.

Gummies

Kids love fruity gummies because of their taste and resemblance to candy. While it’s perfectly safe to give your kid a vitamin gummy, parents should be extra cautious to keep them out of the reach of children at all times.

Though you might have to take extra precautions to keep these out of the reach of your children, your kids will love the taste and will take them without any fuss.

Powder

A powder iron supplement can be mixed with your kid’s favorite soft foods, such as oatmeal, applesauce, or yogurt, making it a great option for picky eaters.

Iron supplements may cause digestive issues like upset stomach, stool changes, and constipation. Although they are absorbed better if they’re taken on an empty stomach before a meal, taking them after a meal may be beneficial if your child experiences any negative side effects.

Excessive iron intake can lead to serious health problems, so never give your child iron supplements without first consulting a doctor.

  • severe vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • pale or bluish skin and fingernails
  • weakness

Iron overdose

An iron overdose is a medical emergency, so it’s important to contact poison control immediately if you think your child has overdosed on iron.

You can call the National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere within the United States.

When using an iron supplement, there are several precautions you should take to keep your child safe.

First, consult your pediatrician before giving your child any type of supplement. Be sure to use supplements only as directed and call your pediatrician to address any concerns.

Ensure that all supplements are out of the reach of children so they don’t mistake them for candy. Try keeping supplements on the highest shelf, preferably in a locked cupboard, and make sure they’re clearly labeled and stored in a container with a child-resistant lid.

To maximize absorption, avoid giving your child an iron supplement with milk or caffeinated beverages. Pairing iron with foods rich in vitamin C, like orange juice or strawberries, can also help increase absorption.

Finally, keep in mind that it can take several months for iron levels to return to normal. Therefore, it’s essential to use supplements for as long as your doctor recommends.

There are many types of iron supplements available for kids, including:

  • liquid drops
  • syrups
  • chews
  • gummies
  • powders

It’s essential to introduce iron-rich foods into your child’s diet as soon as possible. Foods like fortified breakfast cereals, lean meats, and fruits and vegetables are great sources of iron, as well as a variety of other essential vitamins and minerals.

Speak with your child’s doctor or healthcare professional if you are concerned about your child’s iron levels or if they might be anemic.