October 27, 2008
Iron Status In Exclusively Breastfed Infants
Does breastmilk contain enough iron for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life? This study looks closely at the question.
In conclusion, the International Breastfeeding Journal wrote in it’s abstract:
Exclusively breastfed infants of non-anemic and anemic mothers did not develop iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia by six months of age.
Filed under Breastfeeding Research by Jessica
Comments on Iron Status In Exclusively Breastfed Infants »
Hi,
I was just curious, what about exclusive breastfeeding past 6 months? My son is now 8 months old, but still not interested in any food. Is this normal? Is he not getting enough vitamins/minerals? I’m really confused on this because it seems like the only studies done have been up to 6 months. Do you know of any past 6 months? Should I be trying to get him to eat solids more? I really need your advice on this! Thanks so much, I love your blog!
Saleema
Hi, Saleema! I’m glad you enjoy my blog.
What your son is doing is just fine.
Babies are born with a large supply of iron and breastmilk does contain iron. There isn’t very much in it, but what is there is absorbed very well, so there shouldn’t be any problem with anemia for him. Infants can be exclusively breastfed for a year or more with no problem.
As long as he looks healthy and has plenty of energy on breast milk, I wouldn’t worry. You can just follow his lead, and when he gets hungry for food, he’ll be ready for it.
My Hannah is now 13 months old. She barely ate any food at all for the first year. Despite still loving to nurse, she is now a passionate eater.
Thanks for writing! I hope you find this helps you.
Jess