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Foods to Give Young Children to Help With Anemia

Anemia is a medical condition resulting from a lack of healthy red blood cells (RBCs). Many types of anemia exist, and each variation is treated differently. Children usually develop anemia due to not getting enough iron to make new RBCs. In addition to adding iron to your child's diet, vitamin B12 and folic acid are also needed to cure anemia.

  1. Liver and Other Meats

    • The human body is good at absorbing rich iron levels found in meats. Liver in particular, as well as beef, pork, lamb and dark poultry meat are iron-rich foods. Always choose a lean cut of meat. Meat is a good source of vitamin B12 as well. Taking vitamin C pills or consuming foods and beverages high in vitamin C (such as citrus fruits and juices) along with iron-rich foods can help the body absorb iron more efficiently. Citrus foods are also rich in folic acid.

    Dried Fruits and Nuts

    • You can find lots of iron in dried fruits such as apricots, raisins, dates, prunes and figs. Nuts are also a rich source, such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and tahini. Consider making your child a homemade blend of trail mix from these iron-rich foods.

    Beans

    • If your child isn't a meat eater, consider trying iron-rich beans (especially lima beans). Other types of beans rich in iron include kidney beans, navy beans, soy beans, chickpeas (garbanzos) and pinto beans. Your child may enjoy a snack of homemade hummus (made with tahini and chickpeas) as a dip for pita chips.

    Green, Leafy Vegetables

    • Spinach and broccoli are two rich sources of iron, as well as folic acid. For mixed salad greens, choose the darkest leaves possible. Asparagus, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, turnip greens, parsley and cabbage also fall into this category. For children who won't eat spinach, consider incorporating some spinach into a cheese pizza or spaghetti sauce.

    Whole Grains and Iron-Fortified Foods

    • Many breads and cereals as well as oatmeal, pasta, rice and grits are whole grain and/or iron fortified. They are often good sources of folic acid, too. Make sure to check the label.

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