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Kids seem to have endless amounts of energy that can be impossible to match. One minute they’re buzzing around the playground, the next they’re turning the living room furniture into an obstacle course. But many parents have also seen the opposite, when that energetic spark seems a little dimmer.

Sometimes that energy drop signals that a cold is coming on, a growth spurt is underway or your kiddo simply had a long day. Other times, it may be linked to iron deficiency. It is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in children, but it’s not always easy to spot.

Knowing why iron matters and what signs to watch for can help you support your kiddo’s growing body and busy little life.

Why iron is important for growing kids

Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen where it needs to go, supporting healthy energy levels, growth and development.

Because kids grow so quickly, their iron needs can rival or even exceed those of adults. During the early years especially, they’re building new tissues, learning new skills and staying active, all of which rely on a steady supply of iron.

According to Health Canada, the recommended daily iron intake varies by age:

• Infants (7–12 months): 11 mg/day
• Toddlers (1–3 years): 7 mg/day
• Kids (4–8 years): 10 mg/day
• Kids (9–13 years): 8 mg/day
• Teen Boys (14–18): 11 mg/day
• Teen Girls (14–18): 15 mg/day

For comparison, adults (19-50) require 8 mg/day for men and 18 mg/day for women.

However, kids are famous for having strong opinions about food. One week broccoli is the star of the plate. The next week it’s treated like a personal insult. On top of that, iron-rich foods aren’t exactly kid-friendly. Organ meats, lentils, pumpkin seeds and spinach aren’t usually a favourite menu item for a lot of kids – understandably so! Picky eating phases are completely normal, but they can make it harder to consistently include iron-rich foods in everyday meals.

How to spot the symptoms of low iron

Signs often appear gradually and may look like everyday childhood ups and downs. Some common symptoms of low iron to watch out for include:

• Poor appetite
• Cold hands & feet
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Irritability

If you’re concerned about your child’s iron levels, the most reliable way to check is through blood work ordered by a healthcare provider. You could try adding more iron-rich foods to meals, addressing any underlying factors affecting iron intake, or consider giving them an iron supplement for maximum support.

A gentle iron option for kids

For some families, meeting iron needs through food alone can be tough, so if their iron levels are low, a supplement may be recommended. In that case, it’s good to know which one is best for kids.

Some are tough to digest and can cause an upset stomach, nausea or constipation. Choosing a supplement that is well absorbed and gentle on the stomach can make a big difference for both kids and parents.

Orange Naturals Kids Liquid Iron uses a highly bioavailable polysaccharide-iron complex (PIC), a form of iron that is designed to absorb well while remaining gentle on little tummies.

Each dose provides 10mg of elemental iron, offering a safe and effective amount for children ages one year and up. Formulated by Canadian naturopathic doctors, this liquid supplement features a natural green apple flavour that makes it easy to incorporate into their daily routines, all while letting you feel good knowing it contains no artificial ingredients.

For families navigating picky eating phases or concerned about their child’s iron intake, choosing a well-absorbed and gentle iron supplement can help support healthy iron levels as kids grow, learn and play.

Discover more kids’ health supplements at orangenaturals.com/kids