POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy6 months agoA. To check for iron and calcium deficiency in your 1-year-8-month-old, look for symptoms and, if needed, confirm with a blood test.
✅ Signs of Iron Deficiency (Anemia)
❌ Pale skin, lips, or inside of the eyelids.
❌ Fatigue or weakness.
❌ Poor appetite.
❌ Frequent illnesses or slow healing.
❌ Irritability or crankiness.
❌ Pica (eating non-food items like soil, chalk, or paper).
🔍 Blood Test to Confirm:
✔ Hemoglobin (Hb) test – Low levels indicate anemia.
✔ Serum Ferritin & Iron Levels – To check stored iron.
✅ Signs of Calcium Deficiency
❌ Delayed teething or weak teeth.
❌ Brittle nails or weak bones (frequent falls).
❌ Muscle cramps or twitching.
❌ Poor growth or delayed milestones.
❌ Irritability or trouble sleeping.
🔍 Blood Test to Confirm:
✔ Serum Calcium Test – Measures calcium levels.
✔ Vitamin D Test – Low vitamin D affects calcium absorption.
✅ Preventing Iron & Calcium Deficiency
✅ For Iron: Spinach, beetroot, ragi, eggs, jaggery, pomegranate, chicken, lentils.
✅ For Calcium: Milk, curd, cheese, ragi, sesame seeds, almonds, tofu.
✅ Give Vitamin C-Rich Foods (oranges, tomatoes) to help iron absorption.
✅ Avoid Tea/Coffee with meals, as they reduce iron absorption.
If your baby shows signs of deficiency, consult a pediatrician for tests and supplements if needed. Let me know if you need a diet plan!
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