Your child needs iron in their diet to keep their blood healthy. Iron supports healthy growth and development. But sometimes, it can be difficult to get children to eat the right types of foods.

The HSE has published this great guide on Iron in your Child's Diet:

Why does a child need Iron?

• Iron helps make new red blood cells that carry oxygen from the child's lungs to the rest of the body.
• Babies are born with stores of iron that last about 6 months.
• After this, your growing child needs to get iron from the foods they eat.

What are the consequences of a lack of iron in the blood?

• Your child may develop anaemia if they don't get enough iron in their diet. Anaemia is a lack of iron in the blood.
• Recent studies found that half of Irish 2-year-olds have low levels of iron. Almost 10% suffer from anaemia because of this.
• If your child has anaemia, they might have a poor appetite and seem tired and pale. They will be less able to fight infection and might be sick a lot.
• Children aged 1 to 3 years who are small for their age may need extra iron. Talk to your public health nurse, GP practice nurse or GP for advice.

What are the best sources of iron?

• Red meat is the best source of iron. Give it to your child 3 times a week. Beef, lamb, pork and poultry are good sources of iron.
• Give your child a breakfast porridge or cereal which has iron added. Do this most day of the week. Check the label for ones that contain at least 12mg iron per 100g. Add chopped berries. They contain vitamin C, which helps your child to absorb iron.

Other sources are:

• eggs, well-cooked
• peas
• beans
• lentils
• green leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli
• Vitamin C and iron absorption
• Eating foods rich in vitamin C improves iron absorption.
• Fresh fruit and vegetables – such as such as oranges, kiwis, strawberries and peppers – are good sources of vitamin C.

Please note:  Liver is not recommended for babies under 12 months of age as it contains too much vitamin A for them.