low iron tests

[hfigram]

My HFI grandson was recently tested for iron at 10 which is very low. Tests show the iron is binding to red blood cells, but he is not at a good level. What are some acceptable iron rich foods for an HFI child who is 18 months old?

[Kelly Grace]

Hello,

When my daughter was old enough to eat table foods I would steam fresh spinach for her.

Our doctor did not want either of my children to eat jar meats so I would cut up boiled fresh chicken, turkey, etc.

To this day (my daughter is 6 years old now) she loves fresh spinach salads. I found a brand of Bacon Bits that are safe, and Newman's Oil and Vinegar salad dressing is safe.

Her iron levels are always great. She gets checked every 6 months.

My kids also ate steamed fresh wax beans and green beans. They also loved finger size macaroni prepared with melted butter.

Oatmeal is a great start for the morning, as is scrambled eggs or a cheese/spinach omelet.

I would also find tortilla shells that are sugar free and make a chicken, spinach and cheese quesidalla. Prepare chicken and spiach ahead of time, place one tortilla shell on the bottom of a plate spread chicken, spinach and cheese liberally over the shell, place another shell on top and microwave until warm and cheese is melted. I then use a pizza cutter and cut into triangles.

Panera bread has a sourdough bread that is safe, and Lily eats it all the time. It is a great bread to eat even if you can have sugar!

Hope this helps and good luck to you!