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Subject:
From:
Monifa D Thompson <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Sat, 19 Apr 1997 17:14:28 -0400
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TEXT/PLAIN
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Hello Anna,
      I have found literature stating that the iron found in breast milk,
even though much lower in concentration than that in prepared formulas is
much more readily and fully absorbed and appears sufficient to meet the
infant's iron needs for the first 4 to 6 months.  The American Academy of
pediatrics (1989) states that there is generally no need to give
supplemental iron to breastifed newborns before the age of 6 months.
Supplemental iron may decrease the ability of breast milk to protect the
newborn by interfering with lactoferrin, an iron binding protein that
enhances the absorption of iron and has anti-infective properties.  I
would also like to read more research on this topic.  I hope this is
useful.
                                    Monifa Thompson,SN    Buffalo, NY

References:
Ladewig, P., London, M., Olds, S. Essentials of Maternal-Newborn Nursing.
    (1994). 3rd Ed. Addison-Wesley Nursing: Redwood City. (pgs.644-645).

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