Iron in Baby Formula
Baby Formula with Iron
Should I feed my baby a formula with iron?
According to the experts, if you cannot breastfeed or need to supplement, then you should provide your baby with an iron fortified formula. Source There is good evidence that iron deficiency in the first years adversely affects an infant's brain development. So it is an important ingredient to look for in baby formula.
Are there side effects?
You are probably going to here people that iron fortified formula will give your baby gas or constipation. Or, if your baby has constipation, friends may recommend switching to a low-iron formula. In actuality, constipation and gas are rarely the result of iron in the formula.
The basis for most people's belief that iron formula causes constipation is based on the fact that when adults supplement with iron, constipation is a common side effect. However, a study done concerning the formula question in babies was performed and the rate of constipation for babies taking the low-iron formula and the iron fortified formula was the same.
Considering its benefits and the data showing little or no side effects, choose a formula with iron. Most every formula available on this site contains iron. Use the menu to the right to find the right baby formula for your child.