What is the recommended iron supplementation for infants starting at 4 months of age who are breastfed?

Infants who are exclusively breastfed typically receive adequate iron in their diet for the first few months of life due to the iron content in breast milk. However, as they approach 4 months of age, their iron stores begin to diminish since breast milk contains lower levels of iron compared to fortified formula. To prevent iron deficiency anemia, it is essential to provide sufficient iron supplementation.

The recommended dose of iron supplementation for breastfed infants starting at 4 months of age is 1 mg/kg/day. This dose is based on guidelines from pediatric organizations, which emphasize the importance of providing adequate iron to support healthy growth and development during this critical period. It is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure that infants receive this supplementation to prevent potential anemia and its associated complications as they grow and develop their dietary needs.

In contrast, doses lower than 1 mg/kg/day may not sufficiently meet the iron requirements of these infants, while higher doses could risk toxicity and adverse effects without providing additional benefits. Therefore, the recommended 1 mg/kg/day standard strikes a balance to ensure both efficacy and safety.