18/08/2026
Low iron stores in toddlers, children and teens are more common than most parents realise.
Almost every day in clinic, I see children of all ages with depleted iron stores. One of the challenges is that iron deficiency doesn't always present as obvious fatigue. Instead, it can show up in ways such as tantrums and sleep disturbances that are easily mistaken for "just a phase" or a child's personality.
Low Iron is mostly a consequence of the enormous growth demands children experience. Never should parents feel guilty when they discover low iron stores, but it does pay to be informed and intentional.
Iron is one of the most important nutrients for growing children, playing a vital role in:
~ Brain development, learning and focus
~ Neurotransmitter production
~ Healthy blood volume and oxygen transport
~ Growth and development
~ Immune function and resilience
~ Energy production
Supporting healthy iron levels starts with offering a variety of both haem iron sources (such as red meat, liver, chicken, egg yolk, and fish) and non-haem iron sources (such as legumes, tofu, cashews, spinach and iron-fortified foods). It's also helpful to pair plant sources with vitamin C-rich foods to improve absorption.
If you're concerned your child may have low iron, speak with your healthcare practitioner. Iron supplementation should always be guided by appropriate testing and individual assessment.
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