Hemoglobin deficiency in children is not uncommon. If the deficit is significant, then we can already talk about anemia, and this condition is dangerous for the child's body, since it worsens the supply of oxygen to tissues, including the brain. Treatment for hemoglobin deficiency depends on its degree and the age of the child.
Necessary
- - foods that increase hemoglobin;
- - consultation with a hematologist
Instructions
Step 1
A decrease in the level of hemoglobin, in most cases, is due to iron deficiency, but besides it, there are still many trace elements responsible for the construction of the body. Ask your pediatrician if it is possible to do an advanced blood count to determine which micronutrient is deficient in your child.
Step 2
If your baby's diet contains a large proportion of breast milk, then do not try to reduce its intake in favor of complementary foods. Breast milk contains a protein called lactoferrin, which contains iron ions. The bioavailability of iron from this protein is about 60%, while from other products it rarely turns out to be higher than 20%. In addition, the baby's immature enzymatic system is not yet ready to fully digest "adult" food.
Step 3
If the child is bottle-fed, or is already old enough, then adjust his diet in favor of foods containing a large amount of substances that raise hemoglobin. Iron is best absorbed from meat products, especially beef, where the bioavailability of iron is 22%. Iron in fish products has a bioavailability of about 11%. A large amount of iron is found in buckwheat, peas, and egg yolk. You should also take care of an adequate intake of foods rich in folic acid, vitamins B12 and C. These substances are found in various vegetables and fruits.
Step 4
In the event that the hemoglobin indicators threaten the health of the child, it is unlikely that it will be possible to do with just adjusting the diet, and it may be necessary to give the child iron supplements. Taking such drugs must necessarily be carried out under the supervision of a physician.
