Inadequate Iron in Infancy Leads to Later-Life Poor Cognitive Function

Researchers at the University of California have demonstrated that infants with iron deficiency¹ have reduced cognitive function at age 19.  Brain imaging showed reduced functionality in areas of the brain associated with executive function and memory.

Iron is vital for growth and brain development. It is a cofactor that works with protein to assemble valuable structures everywhere in the body, including the brain. On the other hand, too much free iron in the digestive tract stimulates bacterial and Candida overgrowth and may be a major reason for intelligence decline and poor health.

This means iron quality is vital for infants.  In general, an infant has adequate iron for six months if mom was well nourished and had adequate iron in her diet during pregnancy.  There is additional iron in breast milk and it is contained in the lactoferrin molecule, which is essentially an iron cage so as to prevent free iron release in the digestive tract.  This is by far the safest way for a baby to get iron.

Iron in food forms is generally safe and high quality iron in supplements, such as iron bisglycynate, is also very safe.  These forms of iron “stay together” in the digestive tract and do not expose the developing balance of bacterial power to free iron. 

On the other hand, iron fortification of formula or cheap iron supplements (ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, etc). can induce excess free iron which can seriously compromise digestive health and the balance of friendly flora that is seeking to evolve and support healthy digestion. 

Thus, a lack of iron is problematic to physical and mental development and on the other hand, so is cheap iron.  The best forms of iron in the early years are that contained in breast milk, iron-containing foods, and iron supplements that are true protein chelates.