Iron levels in breast milk are low (what this means for breast feeding longer than 6 months) | Biology of Breast Milk
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Some nutrients in breastmilk are low, regardless of maternal status. Iron, in particular, is lacking, a seemingly counterintuitive biological phenomenon that is crucial to reduce the risk of life-threatening infections in the newborn. By the age of six months, however, infants can develop iron-deficiency anemia, so introducing iron-rich foods in addition to breast milk is recommended. In this clip, Dr. Rhonda Patrick explains why iron levels in breast milk are low.
Iron is an essential nutrient that plays key roles in infant growth, but breast milk is incredibly low in iron, which might seem counterintuitive. However, microbes require iron for their growth too. To prevent infection, the body restricts microbes' access to iron. Within hours of birth, the infant serum iron levels drop dramatically, this reduces the infant's risk of developing neonatal sepsis, a generalized life-threatening bacterial infection that commonly occurs within the first days and weeks of life.
Infants rely on their iron stores, but by the age of six months, infants can begin to develop iron deficiency anemia. So pediatricians recommend introducing iron-rich complementary foods at that time.
Foods other than breast milk or infant formula introduced to an infant. Complementary foods are typically introduced around the age of six months and include age-appropriate grains, vegetables, fruits, and, eventually, meats.
An essential mineral present in many foods. Iron participates in many physiological functions and is a critical component of hemoglobin. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart arrhythmias.
The body's overwhelming and life-threatening response to an infection which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
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