Healthy and Delicious Meals That Help Fight Anaemia and Iron Deficiency in Toddlers and Children

Generally, babies store enough iron in their bodies during the first half year of their life. However, iron needs increase after six months. In fact, if the body does not absorb the needed amount of iron, it can quickly become deficient in iron. The good news is; you can provide enough iron in your child’s diet by serving healthy and delicious meals.

Deficiency

Generally, symptoms of iron deficiency only occur when the condition has progressed to iron deficiency anemia. This is when the body’s iron supplies are so low that the body is unable to produce enough red blood cells to carry oxygen proficiently. Moreover, this common nutritional deficiency is said to be the leading cause of anemia. Some of the most shared symptoms include:

• Pale skin
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Lack of strength
• Exhaustion
• Light colored fingernails
• Inflamed tongue (glossitis)

Prevention

One of the best ways to prevent iron deficiency is to eat healthy and delicious meals. As well, eating a healthy and balanced diet that includes good sources of iron will prevent deficiencies. You also want to make sure to combine vegetarian sources of vitamin C with iron at the same meal. For instance, spinach with lemon vinaigrette, bean and bell pepper salad or cereal high in iron served with berries.

Good Sources of Iron

A prerequisite for any anemic child or adult are healthy meals that include foods high in iron. As well, it is imperative that you include foods rich in vitamin B12, vitamin C and folic acid. Moreover, there are iron superfoods that can help combat or prevent iron deficiency in toddlers and children.

Spinach – Not just for Popeye, this delicious food is rich in iron and also high in vitamin A, C, B9 and E, plus it contains beta carotene and fiber. Just ½ cup spinach has 3.2 mg of iron, which is 20 percent of the iron requirement for a woman.

Peanuts and Peanut Butter – Peanut butter is a high source of iron. If you are not fond of peanut butter, try eating a handful of roasted peanuts. Only 2 tablespoons of peanut butter contains 0.6 mg of iron.

Eggs – Eggs are a great source of antioxidants and protein. In truth, consuming eggs is the perfect way to store up on vitamins and iron, especially for anemic patients. Just one large egg contains 1 mg of iron.

Soy Beans – These beans are a fabulous source of iron and vitamins. As well, soy beans contain phytic acid, which helps the absorption of iron. These beans are also low-fat and high in protein, the ideal food to help combat anemia.

Other iron superfoods for healthy and delicious meals include beetroot, red meat, seafood, tomatoes, pomegranates, whole grain bread, nuts and raisins.