Jakarta, goldensamoyed Indonesia
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Anemia
Iron deficiency is still a health problem that often escapes the attention of parents.In fact, this condition can arise not only because of lack of food
food
nutritious, but also due to simple habits such as drinking too much tea or eating chocolate which can actually inhibit iron absorption.
Iron is an important component that forms hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body.When the number is low, the child’s body does not get an optimal oxygen supply.
The impact is slowly emerging.The impacts range from children looking pale, getting tired easily, being less active, to stunted growth.
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Pediatrician at Bethesda Hospital Yogyakarta, Devie Kristen, said that the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia are often not recognized in the early stages.
“Children may look pale, get tired easily, or be lethargic. There are also those who have difficulty gaining weight, have delayed growth, have decreased appetite, or even develop pica habits such as eating dirt or ice cubes,” he explained in a written statement, Thursday (27/11).
The impact is not just ‘lack of blood’
Devie emphasized that iron deficiency anemia has a direct influence on children’s brain development and learning abilities.
“Studies show that children with iron deficiency anemia have lower cognitive, psychomotor and concentration scores. This affects their learning readiness and academic achievement,” he said.
He also reminded the importance of getting enough iron from the start of life, including during periods of exclusive breastfeeding and MPASI which are rich in iron.
Devie said that iron deficiency in children can occur due to several factors, such as:
• Low iron food intake
• Suboptimal iron absorption
• Blood loss due to chronic infection
• The risk is higher in premature babies or children whose mothers were anemic during pregnancy
• Giving MPASI without paying attention to iron content
However, diet and daily habits also play a role.Tea, coffee and chocolate contain tannins and caffeine which can inhibit iron absorption in the intestine.If consumed at the same time as meals, the effectiveness of iron from food can decrease drastically.
“On the other hand, vitamin C has been proven to increase iron absorption up to twofold. Iron-fortified growth milk can also help complete daily needs,” he said.
How to prevent iron deficiency anemia
Medical & Scientific Affairs Director of Sarihusada, Ray Wagiu Basrowi, said that recent research conducted by his party showed that children aged 1-3 years who regularly consumed two glasses of growth milk containing IronC (a combination of iron and vitamin C), accompanied by a balanced diet, achieved sufficient iron according to the nutritional adequacy rate (RDA).
“Early detection and intervention are key. With proper nutrition, regular monitoring and ongoing education, we can help Indonesian children grow healthily and reach their maximum potential,” said Ray.
Here are some simple things you can do to prevent children from getting iron deficiency anemia:
• Combine food sources of iron with vitamin C (oranges, strawberries, tomatoes).
• Provide iron supplements as recommended by health workers, especially for high-risk children.
• Reduce consumption of tea, coffee and chocolate at meal times.
• Ensure children’s daily nutrition is balanced, including support from iron-fortified growth milk.
• Conduct regular consultations to monitor nutritional adequacy.
(tis/tis)
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