Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Children: Signs, Causes & Treatment

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by our specialists · East Delhi

Why Iron Matters for Children

Iron is essential for haemoglobin synthesis (oxygen transport), brain development, immune function, and energy. Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most common nutritional deficiency in India — affecting 50–70% of children under 5 and 40% of school-age children.

Causes in Indian Children

• Inadequate dietary iron (especially in predominantly cereal-based diets)
• Poor iron absorption (tea and coffee with meals inhibit absorption)
• Increased needs (prematurity, rapid growth, adolescence)
• Blood loss (intestinal parasites — hookworm, recurrent infections)

Signs and Symptoms

• Pallor (pale conjunctiva, palms, tongue)
• Fatigue, decreased activity
• Poor concentration, declining school performance
• Pica — eating non-food items (chalk, soil, ice) is classic iron deficiency sign
• Frequent infections (impaired immunity)
• Spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia) in severe cases

Treatment

Iron Supplements

• Elemental iron: 3–6 mg/kg/day divided in 1–2 doses
• Take on empty stomach with Vitamin C (orange juice) for maximum absorption
• Away from milk and tea
• Duration: 3 months minimum after Hb normalises (to replenish stores)

Iron-Rich Foods

• Haem iron (best absorbed): meat, chicken, fish
• Non-haem iron: lentils, beans, tofu, green vegetables, fortified cereals
• Pair with Vitamin C foods to double absorption
• Avoid tea/coffee with meals