The main causes of iron deficiency anemia in children are insufficient iron intake in the diet, impaired iron absorption, and increased iron demand. It can be alleviated by adjusting the diet, supplementing with iron, and improving lifestyle habits. Iron deficiency anemia is a common nutritional deficiency disease in children, closely related to insufficient iron intake, poor iron absorption, and increased iron demand.
1. Insufficient iron intake in the diet
One of the main reasons is that children's long-term intake of foods low in iron is iron deficiency. Dairy products are low in iron, and if iron-rich complementary foods, such as red meat, animal liver, and egg yolks, are not introduced in time, iron deficiency can easily occur. Picky eating, selective eating, or vegetarian diets also increase the risk.
2. Iron absorption disorder
Gastrointestinal diseases, chronic diarrhea, and malabsorption syndrome can all affect iron absorption. Vitamin C deficiency can also reduce iron absorption, as vitamin C helps promote the absorption of non-heme iron.
3. Increased demand for iron
Children are in a rapid growth and development stage and have a greater need for iron. Premature infants, low birth weight infants, and adolescent girls have even higher iron requirements due to menstrual blood loss. If iron is not supplemented in time, iron deficiency anemia can easily occur.
4. Chronic blood loss
Chronic blood loss is another important cause. Intestinal parasitic infections, gastrointestinal ulcers, and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lead to occult blood loss, resulting in increased iron loss.
5. Genetic factors
Certain genetic diseases, such as thalassemia and hereditary sideroblastic anemia, may affect iron metabolism and utilization, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
Iron deficiency anemia in children can be treated and prevented through the following methods:
1. Dietary adjustments: Increase iron-rich foods such as red meat, animal liver, fish, beans, and leafy green vegetables, and pair them with foods rich in vitamin C to promote iron absorption.
2. Iron supplementation: Take oral iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate, under the guidance of a doctor, and have regular blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.
3. Improve lifestyle habits: Avoid picky eating and develop regular eating habits, and reduce the intake of sugary and high-fat foods.
4. Treat the underlying disease: If there is a gastrointestinal disease or parasitic infection, it needs to be treated in time to reduce iron loss.
5. Regular physical examinations: Children should undergo regular anemia screenings, especially premature infants, low birth weight infants, and adolescent girls.
Prevention and treatment of iron-deficiency anemia in children requires a multi-pronged approach, including diet, lifestyle habits, and disease management. Timely iron supplementation and dietary adjustments can effectively prevent and treat iron-deficiency anemia, promoting healthy growth in children. Parents should prioritize their children's nutritional balance and health management, and seek medical attention promptly if any problems are observed.