A silent threat unseen by parents, pediatricians warn that "iron deficiency in children" is a key factor destroying the brain and IQ during the critical first 2,500 days of life, the golden period for development.
Parents can easily recognize when children eat too little by their thin bodies and height and weight falling below standard. Likewise, overeating is evident through overweight issues. However, parents cannot detect when children aged 1 to 3 years suffer from iron deficiency anemia, an important nutrient shortage during the brain’s golden growth and developmental period, which can have long-term effects into adulthood.
Associate Professor Dr. Suchaorn Sangnipankul, from the Department of Pediatrics at Khon Kaen University's Faculty of Medicine, revealed key information during a lecture titled "The Relevancy of YCF in Thai Children: bridging the Iron Gap and Tackling Thailand’s Triple Burden," organized by the Pediatric and Nutrition Manufacturers Association (PNMA). Studies on nutrition in Thai and Southeast Asian children reveal a worrying reality: the "Triple Burden of Malnutrition," with micronutrient deficiency—lack of essential vitamins and minerals—being a leading problem.
Particularly, iron stands out. Studies of hospitalized children show that among those with micronutrient deficiencies, iron deficiency accounts for as high as 95%, followed by deficiencies in vitamin D and zinc. These minerals work together to strengthen bones, support physical growth, and maintain immune system function.
Why is iron important?
Iron is not just about producing red blood cells; it is crucial for creating "myelin" and supporting brain function. If children experience anemia or iron deficiency early in life, especially during the first 2,500 days, it can cause long-lasting negative impacts on learning and IQ that are difficult to recover.
Problems caused by eating behaviors
Most problems arise from eating behaviors, especially in toddlers who begin to be picky eaters, resulting in incomplete nutrient intake. Previously, iodine deficiency was often considered the cause of brain problems, but now iron deficiency has been identified as the main issue. Therefore, even if children appear healthy with normal height and weight, parents should not be complacent. They need to pay attention to the type and amount of food their children regularly consume and consult a pediatrician promptly if problems arise to adjust the diet appropriately.
Solution through fortified food innovation
When natural food intake alone is insufficient, or children have selective eating habits, nutrient-fortified formula milk plays an important role. Especially formulas enriched with iron, vitamin D, zinc, and other essential vitamins and minerals help ensure children receive the nutrients their bodies need daily.
In today’s fast-paced world where children grow rapidly and eating behaviors and nutritional choices change with the times, fortified formula milk is not just an option for children with nutritional problems but a complementary solution alongside behavioral and nutritional care, providing a foundation for lifelong robust health.