How to Avoid Anemia in Children

Anemia is caused by iron deficiency in the blood. When there isn't enough iron in the blood, a person will feel exhausted because the ability to carry oxygen through the body is reduced.

Steps


1. Have a bit of honey every day.

Consuming a little bit of honey in warm water on a daily basis raises the red blood cell count. However, children below a year of age should not be given honey.


2. Check with your doctor.

For children between a year and five years of age, doctors may, if needed, prescribe a tablet of elemental iron and folate (IFA).


3. Do not give your infant cow's milk in the first year of life.

Cow's milk is a common cause of iron deficiency in infants. Iron is absorbed 3 times better when it is in breast milk.
Tips
  • Common symptoms of anemia include blue-tinged or very pale whites of eyes, blood in the stools, brittle nails, decreased appetite, fatigue, headache, irritability, pale skin color, shortness of breath, sore tongue, unusual food cravings (called pica) and weakness. No symptoms may be present if anemia is mild.
Warnings
  • Keep all iron-containing products out of your child's reach. They can be poisonous when taken in very large amounts.
  • Always get a physician's advice before giving your child any medicines or medical supplements, including when you wish to change dosage.