Importance of Iron
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| Importance of Iron | |
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Iron Fortification of foods is a technological process of adding extra Iron to certain foods such as cereals (wheat, rice etc.). This helps in increasing the iron content of these foods. An adequate intake of iron from iron fortified foods may help prevent iron deficiency, hence reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency is one of the most common cause of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is caused due to severe Iron deficiency, resulting in cognitive impairment, decreased physical capacity and reduced immunity. Iron deficiency anemia also contributes to diminished growth and learning. Children with iron deficiency anemia are less playful, show less pleasure, have increased irritability and less reaction to usual stimuli. Iron deficiency among young children can be prevented by teaching families about child nutrition and with adequate intake of age appropriate iron rich solid foods such as iron fortified cereals along with foods that enhance iron absorption such as vitamin C rich fruits, vegetables and juices. References: |