What is iron deficiency in children?
Iron is an important trace element in the body. It plays an important role in the formation of the red blood pigment (haemoglobin) and thus in the oxygen supply of the body. Iron deficiency is defined as a reduction in the iron level and the storage iron in the blood. Iron deficiency can be caused by bleeding, malnutrition or disorders in the utilization of iron.
Causes
In principle, there are three different causes for iron deficiency. These are: insufficient iron absorption iron loss iron utilization disorders The inadequate iron absorption can be caused by an incorrect or malnutrition. Here, for example, a vegetarian or vegan diet should be mentioned.
Furthermore, an increased iron requirement of the body can also be a cause. Especially in growth phases or when doing competitive sports, the iron requirement of the child is strongly increased and an iron deficiency can occur due to an insufficient intake. Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases or food intolerances can also lead to a disturbed absorption of iron in the bowel.
Iron losses are another cause of iron deficiency. The most common cause is bleeding. In children this is often a nosebleed.
Iron deficiency can also occur in girls with heavy periods. Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can be another cause of bleeding and thus iron deficiency. However, this is rare in children.
The last, but very rare, cause in children is iron utilization disorders. These can occur in chronic diseases or tumor diseases.
- Insufficient iron absorption
- Iron loss
- Iron utilization disorders
What are the consequences of iron deficiency in children?
Iron deficiency in children leads to a reduced production of the red blood pigment haemoglobin. Since this is a component of the red blood cells, the number of red blood cells is reduced. The red blood cells formed are also smaller than normal due to iron deficiency.
This is called iron deficiency anemia. The red blood cells are responsible for the transport of oxygen in the blood and consequently there is an undersupply of oxygen. Especially in children who are in a growth phase, a prolonged iron deficiency can cause damage and delays in mental and physical development.
