The Truth About Iron

Do Breastfed Babies Need Supplements?

By Gwen Morrison

Normally, follow-up blood work is done a few months after the treatment is implemented. It is important to note that iron-deficient diets can lead to poor growth and cognitive development of the infant, Traina adds.

Maryann McLain, a mom from Tucson, Ariz., was concerned when at 13 months, her son's weight began to drop. "He was tested by a pediatrician who said he had a slight anemia," she says. "He's been on iron drops and vitamins with iron for nearly a year now. He started them the day the doctor did the test."

McLain was worried because prior to the supplements, her son was not eating and wasn't growing quickly. McLain says her son now eats more iron-rich foods. "There are side effects to the drops, like constipation and stained teeth," she says. "He does have a much larger appetite now, probably a result of the anemia going away."

"The iron in breast milk is 'special'," says Sarah Gaunt, editor of The Nursing Mom's News from Buda, Texas. Gaunt worries that overzealous supplementation can actually harm a baby.

Keeping this in mind, Ann Calandro, RNC, IBCLC, from Piedmont, S.C., offers this suggestion to anxious parents: "Iron deficiency anemia is rare in breastfed babies, and it would be wise to do a simple blood test to assess this before beginning iron supplementation. Moms can request this, and most health care providers can do this blood test in their office. It is something that lactation consultants usually encourage moms to do if they are concerned about beginning iron supplementation."

It's important for nursing mothers to know the facts so you can ask the right questions when you see your child's doctor. Most experts believe that it is best to have your child tested prior to adding any supplements while breastfeeding.