Iron Deficiency in Children: Are Your Kids Tired? Lack Appetite? They Might Be At Risk!

• Dr. Haribabu of Rajam Area Hospital highlights increasing iron deficiency and anemia in children due to malnutrition.
• Iron deficiency causes fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, reduced interest in studies, and frequent illness by lowering hemoglobin and oxygen supply.
• Prevalent in rural areas due to poor eating habits, junk food, and avoidance of nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens.
• Doctors recommend iron-rich foods: ragi, sesame laddoo, leafy greens (spinach, amaranth, gongura), dates, black gram, chickpeas, beetroot.
• Eggs, fish, chicken for non-vegetarians, and pomegranates/dry fruits also help combat anemia; supplements only with medical advice.

Why It Matters: Address iron deficiency in children through proper nutrition, traditional foods, and medical guidance for healthy development.