vegetarian and anemic?

GabbyG · December 2009

We recently found out that DS is anemic. It's just borderline, but still. It wasn't a surprise because when he was about 9 months his iron stores were low, and at one year his levels were approaching anemia. Until now we have been supplementing with a little Floridix, and I use processed happy bellies oatmeal in the morning that is iron-fortified. The pedi just put him on iron drops.

I'm wondering how common anemia is in other vegetarian babies, and what you do to get iron into your LO's diet. DS is a picky eater.

Thanks!!!

SapphyrEyes · December 2009

DS hasn't had his iron tested and probably should. But, we get beans in him as much as possible and he also likes spinach mixed in dips so that's a bonus for us. And he's pretty picky. So, for his snacky items I always check iron content.

papagena · December 2009

We didn't introduce meat until (I believe) after his iron levels were checked at 9 months, and he was fine. I did focus on making sure DS had iron rich foods and when possible, paired those with something with vitamin C (like having sweet potatoes with blueberries) to make sure he was absorbing as much as possible. We also do some pureeing of veggies into other foods DS likes (we puree spinach in his pasta sauce, I've made a quick and easy broccoli soup with vegetable broth, broccoli and some cheddar cheese, which is often a hit).

Alibean · December 2009

Neither of my children eat meat but DD gets iron fortified cereal and formula.

DS actually really likes spinach and we eat beans several times a week. He'll eat the spinach plain or make smoothies and put that in it. You can't taste the spinach at all. Other than that, we don't seek out iron rich foods. DS is a good eater so we've never had a problem.

Want a personalized experience?

vegetarian and anemic?

Re: vegetarian and anemic?

Choose Another Board

Search Boards