Effect Of Iron Supplementation In Breastfed Infants: A Randomized Controlled Study -

Aim The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of daily iron supplementation for prevention of iron-deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia in healthy exclusively breast-fed infants and the factors affecting development of iron-deficiency anemia. Methods This study was conducted with 65 infants (35 in the iron supplemented group and 30 in the non-supplemented controls) between January 2009-March 2010. Detailed physical examination of all infants was carried out at ages 4, 6, and 9 months. Iron-rich complementary feeding recommendations were given to all families when their infants were 6 months and 9 months of age. Anthropometric measurements, Denver developmental screening test, complete blood count and iron parameters were evaluated. Results There were no significant differences in terms of having iron-deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia between infants receiving iron supplementation and control group not receiving iron supplementation (31.44% 46.6%, respectively) (p>0,05). There were also no statistically significant differences between supplemented and non-supplemented groups in terms of anthropometric measurements, hematological parameters, Denver developmental screening results. Conclusion Consumption of iron rich complementary foods together with routine iron supplementation of term, breast-fed infants from 4 months of age can improve their iron status. Receiving sufficient iron in diet is an effective way prevent iron-deficiency anemia.