As parents, we do our best to make sure our kids are growing up happy, healthy, and strong. But even with the best intentions, one of the most common nutritional gaps in children’s diets is often overlooked: iron deficiency.
In fact, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world—and it’s especially prevalent in young children. According to the CDC, nearly 10% of children in the U.S. under the age of 3 are iron deficient. Among adults, the numbers are even more staggering: up to 25% of women of reproductive age and many individuals with restricted diets (like picky eaters or kids with sensory sensitivities) may not be getting enough iron either.
Why Iron Matters for Kids
Iron isn’t just a “nice-to-have” nutrient—it’s essential for your child’s growth and development. Iron helps the body make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the brain and body. Without enough iron, your child’s body can’t make enough healthy red blood cells, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia.
Signs Your Child May Be Low in Iron
Iron deficiency can show up in subtle (and sometimes surprising) ways. Here are a few signs to watch for:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Pale skin or dark under-eye circles
- Irritability or mood swings
- Poor appetite
- Frequent infections or weakened immunity
- Slowed growth or developmental delays
- Cravings for non-food items (like ice, dirt, or paper—called pica)
If any of these sound familiar, it might be worth discussing iron levels with your pediatrician.
Risk Factors to Know
Some kids are more likely to develop iron deficiency, including:
- Toddlers who drink a lot of cow’s milk (which can block iron absorption)
- Kids who are very selective or picky eaters
- Children with sensory sensitivities or conditions like ARFID or autism
- Premature or low birthweight babies
- Kids who follow vegetarian or vegan diets
The Power of Iron Supplementation
The good news? Iron deficiency is both preventable and treatable. And for many families, a gentle daily supplement can make a big difference—especially when diet alone isn’t cutting it.
At EllaOla, we created our Unflavored Iron with Vitamin C powder specifically for kids. It’s tasteless, odorless, and texture-free, so you can easily mix it into their favorite drinks or foods—without any complaints. Plus, it includes Vitamin C to boost absorption and uses a gentle, bioavailable form of iron that’s easy on little stomachs.
How Is EllaOla Tasteless Iron Powder Different?
- Tasteless, Odorless and Textureless
- Powder Form
- Pediatricians and Dietitians Created
- Added Vitamin C to Boost Iron Absorption
- 3X More Absorption
- Bioavailable
- Gentle on Gut
- No Sugar, No Fillers, No Additives
If your child is often tired, cranky, or just doesn’t seem like themselves, iron deficiency might be playing a hidden role. You don’t have to guess or go it alone—speak with your pediatrician and consider adding an Iron supplement. Because when kids feel their best, they can do their best.
