How is iron-deficiency anaemia diagnosed?

Preliminary blood tests

Hemoglobin

Blood tests are performed to assess haemoglobin levels. A low haemoglobin level indicates anaemia.

Blood smear

A blood smear may be used to assess the size and shape of red blood cells. This test is performed by smearing a small amount of blood on a slide and examining it under a microscope.

Other diagnostic tests

In addition to testing hemoglobin levels and performing blood smears, several other tests may be performed. For example, the serum iron level may be tested. A ferritin test may also be performed to assess the body iron stores. Depending on the symptoms and the results of the preliminary blood tests, your medical practitioner may propose other tests such as the total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test.

All these blood tests reveal important characteristics of the anaemia and help in the diagnosis.

Are iron supplements recommended?

Ideally, babies should get all the iron they need from a balanced diet.

In the case of iron deficiency, supplements may be necessary to bring the haemoglobin level to back to normal, replenish the serum iron, and increase the body iron stores.

However, before supplements are prescribed, it is crucial to properly diagnose the anaemia so that the underlying cause of the iron deficiency is treated.

Untreated anaemia can lead to long term damage.

How can iron deficiency be prevented?

Health Canada recommends a daily dietary allowance for iron of 11 mg for babies from 7 to 12 months of age. How much iron is there in food or milk?

1. A two tablespoons (30 g) serving of extra lean ground beef contains 0.9 mg of iron.
2. A 28 g serving of Milupa step 3 baby cereals contains 6.2 mg of iron
3. One large egg contains 0.6 mg of iron.
4. A 250 ml serving of cow's milk contains 0.1 mg of iron.

According to Health Canada, if an infant is not breastfed, or is partially breastfed, commercial infant formulas are the most acceptable alternative to breast milk until 9 to 12 months of age. Before that age, cow's milk is not recommended because, among other reasons, it is too low in iron.

Make sure your baby also eats plenty of solid foods rich in iron, such as liver, beef, chicken, egg yolk, pork, legumes, dark green vegetables such as broccoli, and iron-fortified infant cereals.