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MY TODDLER IS A FUSSY EATER AND I AM WORRIED HE IS NOT GETTING ENOUGH IRON.

Iron is an essential part of a child's regular diet and is involved in various bodily functions, including the transport of oxygen in the blood to all the cells as well as strong muscle development. When children do not have enough iron they cannot carry enough oxygen to their body’s organs and muscles. Young children grow much more rapidly than adults; therefore iron is even more essential for them during this crucial stage.

Some of the signs of low iron are weakness, fatigue, irritability, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, repeat infections and pale face. If you are very concerned, please see your doctor.

The following is a list of some of the best sources of iron; but keep in mind that the iron in animal foods is much better absorbed than that from plant sources:

• Lean red meats, including beef, pork, lamb and turkey.
• Fish such as tuna and salmon.
• Beans including kidney, lima, navy, black, pinto, soy beans, and lentils.
• Iron fortified whole grains, including cereals, breads, rice, and pasta
• Green vegetables including spinach, broccoli, asparagus, parsley, brussel sprouts and turnip greens.
• Nuts such as almonds and Brazil nuts – be aware of nuts allergies
• Dried fruits such as raisins, prunes, dates and apricots.
• Prune Juice is one of the few juices that is high in iron (3 milligrams of iron per cup). The process involved in making prune juice retains more of the fruit's original nutrients than the juicing of other fruits.
• Potato skins contain nutrients and five times the amount of iron as the rest of the potato. For French-fry-loving-picky eaters, leave the skin when cooking homemade fries.
• Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, so it is a good idea to pair iron rich foods with foods that have a lot of Vitamin C, including citrus fruits and juices such as orange juice and vitamin c fortified apple juice.

Always encourage your little one to try an assortment of foods to obtain a variety of nutrients. Appearance is important and a great influencer to young children. Offering them a variety in the appearance of food – such as shape, size and texture of food can make a difference between a child eating the food and not. Try cutting food up in different shapes such as triangles, squares and strips. And remember to always serve what they like last. Again, if you are very concerned your child is not getting enough iron, please consult your doctor.