Oct 21 2024 15 mins
In this episode of The Beehive, Dr. Blair Rolnick details the critical role of iron in the first 1000 days of an infant's life, focusing on brain development, red blood cell production, immune function, sleep, and overall growth. She explains the importance of iron for neurodevelopment and immune defense, noting that iron deficiency can lead to poor cognitive outcomes and growth issues.
Infants initially get iron from their mothers, then through breast milk or formula, and eventually from iron-rich solid foods such as meats, leafy greens, and legumes. Dr. Rolnick stresses the importance of monitoring iron levels in infants to prevent deficiencies, particularly for breastfeeding mothers who must ensure their own iron sufficiency. Proper iron intake is vital for babies' healthy growth and cognitive development, making it a pivotal focus in early childhood nutrition.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kSBJoBwVcGQ
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always seek medical advice from a qualified physician.
For Dr. Rolnick's practice and more content, visit: https://beekindpediatrics.com/