Breastmilk and iron for infants

FITS Data on Breastfeeding & Iron Intake

Starting around 6 months, infants need iron from foods to meet their iron needs and ensure adequate iron intakes to minimize the risk of iron deficiency and associated developmental delays. Based on NHANES data, 15.1% of children 1-2 years of age are iron deficient (Gupta, 2017).

FITS Breastfeeding Support Importance of Iron Dietary Guidelines Incorporating Cereals & Purees

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Breastmilk Storage Guide

Proper breastmilk storage involves clean hands, labeled containers, and following temperature guidelines. Fresh milk lasts up to 4 days in the fridge and 6-12 months in the freezer. Thawing should be gradual, never in a microwave. Feed oldest milk first and discard unconsumed portions within 1-2 hours.

Breastfeeding Support Quality & Safety

Low Zinc Intake Among Breastfed Infants

At the American Society for Nutrition Conference, Gerber presented their poster for a study determining infant zinc absorption. Using data from FITS, they concluded that breastfed and mixed-fed infants are at risk for inadequate zinc intake. Guidance for complementary foods containing zinc for infants receiving any breast milk may be…

FITS Breastfeeding Support Dietary Guidelines

Factors Impacting Iron Status in Infants

Adequate iron status in the first years of life is essential to brain and cognitive development. The effects of inadequate iron intake even without anemia are detrimental to a child's development. Identifying infants at risk for low iron intake early and monitoring into toddlerhood are important steps to help ensure healthy brain and…

Importance of Iron Incorporating Cereals & Purees Breastfeeding Support