What to do with an anemic kid.

[wanderinggypsy]

So I suspect my oldest DS, who is 8, is rather anemic. I intend to have this confirmed with a bloodtest.

If he is low on iron, how am I likely to rectify the situation? Talk to me about your experiences in the world of iron supplements for a kid. He really isn't into red meat in a big way and he also isn't big on beans.... ugh. In fact feeding him has always been a struggle... he's my pickiest kid by far.

Thanks in advance for any advice!!!

[mamabeca]

Ugh. What a bummer. If he is anemic, he may need to do things he doesn't like. There are some floradix iron supplements that I think are the most easily absorbed (thus lower dosage) but you do need to be careful. Too much iron = constipation big time. Be sure his DOCTOR speaks to him about this - because there are pretty major reprecussions about having imbalances in his body. I hope he's ok, and is willing to help himself!

[Lingmom]

My daughter has mild iron-deficiency anemia. She'll get tested at each of her yearly visits, her HG will be around 10 or so, we'll get sent home with a prescription for an iron supplement, I try to add it to hide it in her food, I end up cooking beef and liver and beans and whatever other foods come up when you google "iron rich foods". After a month she retests and it's at 12.

One of the problems with iron supplements though... constipation. I always make a point of having lots of fruit (like pears and cherries) around the house if she's taking iron supplements. Benefiber works too.

Oh -- also, I think vitamin C with iron is supposed to be even better...

[aja-belly]

we've had alot of luck recently with adding liquid chlorophyll concentrate drops into juice twice a day. it doesn't take a whole lot of juice to mask the flavor, and it made a significant difference in dd's coloring and my own energy levels etc within a week.

[SabraMamma]

Originally Posted by Lingmom

Oh -- also, I think vitamin C with iron is supposed to be even better...

Yes- the body needs the C to help it absorb the iron.

Will your DS drink teas? If so, I remember during pregnancy the book Wise Woman Herbal had lots of different suggestions for herbs that were iron rich to make teas or infusions. Sorry I can't remember them now (I should b/c I have iron issues)- but you could look into trying to make teas/infusions for him to drink.