Iron requirements, absorption and metabolism in infancy and childhood.
OBJECTIVE
Iron deficiency is a significant public health problem in young children due to their high iron requirements, and iron supplements are therefore often recommended. During the time period in focus for this review (2005-2006), there have been additional advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of iron absorption and metabolism. It has also been suggested that iron supplements may have adverse effects in children.


RESULTS
Recently discovered molecules, for example hepcidin, lactoferrin receptor and heme carrier protein may be important for iron metabolism in children. There are possible metabolic interactions between iron and several other minerals. Many studies show that iron deficiency in young children is associated with impaired neurodevelopment but it is not clear whether this can be prevented by iron supplementation. Oral iron supplements given to young children in malarious regions may lead to increased risk of death or severe infections, especially in those who are iron replete.


CONCLUSIONS
More research is needed to identify those children who will benefit from iron supplementation and to better determine iron requirements during early life. Clinical trials should include functional outcomes. Better knowledge about molecular mechanisms and nutrient interactions may lead to new diagnostic tests and preventive strategies.
Domellöf
Magnus
M
Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, SE-90185 Umeå, Sweden. magnus.domellof@pediatri.umu.se
D018798:Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007408:Intestinal Absorption / Q000187:drug effects; D000090463:Iron Deficiencies; D019266:Iron, Dietary / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014131:Trace Elements / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*
D019266:Iron, Dietary; D014131:Trace Elements