Iron and Breast Milk

The iron content of breast milk is often characterized as low. In fact, the amount of iron provided by breast milk appears to be adequate to prevent iron deficiency anemia for at least the first 6 months of life. However, if the same amount of iron is given in any food other than breast milk, this amount is inadequate and iron deficiency anemia does occur. Thus, iron in breast milk seems to be utilized by the infant to a unique extent. In addition, there is some evidence that the high degree of iron utilization in the breast-fed infant has a role in host defense mechanisms. A further understanding of the factors stimulating and limiting absorption of iron from breast milk, cow's milk, and proprietary formulas is needed in order to elucidate the mechanisms of iron absorption and metabolism as well as the role of iron on infections of the infant.