Iron-Brain Development Series

Iron: Critical for the proper brain development and function in young children, delivers oxygen to tissues, contributes to regulation of immune function and metabolism.

Consequences of deficiency: Extreme fatigue and depression, impaired cognitive development, reduced resistance to infection.

Dietary sources: Eggs and meat, dark leafy vegetables such as spinach, legumes (e.g. beans, lentils), whole grains, fortified breads and cereals.

Full-term, healthy babies typically receive enough iron from their mothers in the third trimester of pregnancy to last for the first four months of life. Exclusively breastfed babies may need to receive an iron supplement starting at four months.