Need for iron supplementation in infants on prolonged breast feeding

Abstract

Fe status, as measured by blood counts and indices, serum Fe, transferrin saturation and serum ferritin values, was studied longitudinally in 56 infants on prolonged breast feeding, and compared to that of 29 infants receiving cow milk formula prepared at home and of 47 infants receiving a proprietary infant formula. The first 2 groups received no Fe supplementation; the proprietary formula was supplemented for Fe. Although breast feeding was sufficient to meet Fe needs during the first 6 mo. of life, supplemental Fe would be necessary during the 2nd half of infancy to guarantee the optimal Fe status.