Iron is a
mineral that’s necessary for life. Essentially, it is responsible for carrying
oxygen in your red blood cells and transmitting nerve impulses. And it is
necessary for growth, development, normal cellular functioning, and synthesis
of some hormones and connective tissue. Commonly, not having enough iron in the
body leads to anemia. According to research, it has been found that a man needs
an average daily intake pf 7 mg of iron and a woman 11 mg; and a normal diet
will generally provide all that is needed. As for babies, they usually get
needed iron from breast milk for the first 6 months. At around 6 months, they
will need iron-rich complementary foods as well as breast milk.
Based on the
important roles of iron in human bodies, the authors in this study determined
the concentration of iron in baby weaning food and powder milk available in
Iran. The
concentration of iron in four brands of powder milk and baby food (based on
rice and based on wheat) was analyzed with differential pulse anodic stripping
voltammetry (DPASV) and voltammeter device. Total Means ± SE of Iron in baby
foods and powder milk (n = 40) were 8.55 ± 1.18 mg/100g, 5.21 ± 0.66
respectively. Iron level in baby food type I and II was lower than labeled
value (p < 0.05). Concentration of Iron in powder milk type I and II was
also lower than value of label (p < 0.05). All in all, the amount of iron in
the samples was less than the amount printed on cans that had milk and baby
food. It seems to be more precise control of baby food for health and child
development.
Finally, through this
study, more attention should be given to: iron intake by breast-fed infants;
recommendations for iron supplements; the distribution of iron in milk-binding
factors; and the bioavailability of iron from breast milk.
Article by Behrooz
Jannat, et al, from Tehran, Iran.
Full access: http://mrw.so/2MBnrI
Image by Stefanie, from Flickr-cc.
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