A study on cow's milk and nursing method in relation to iron deficiency

Kang, Ji Ung; Jin, So Hee; Choi, Kyung Dan; Jang, Young Taek

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study investigated the breast-feeding period, the milk bottle-using period, the age of cow's milk, introduced and the amount of cow's milk consumed in relation to anemia.
METHODS
Over the course of three years, 930 children(12 months to 36 months) who went to the Presbyterian Medical Center, Chonju, Korea were tested for anemia and their parents were surveyed for a history of their children's milk consumption.
RESULTS
Anemia appeared more likely between 30 months and 36 months, however, iron-deficiency anemia appeared more likely between 18 months and 23 months. Anemia, low serum ferritin levels and iron-deficiency anemia appeared more likely in children breast fed less than 6 months and greater than 12 months. Although there were survey reports of side effects with cow's milk, including constipation, diarrhea and skin rash, the milk bottle-using period, age of cow's milk introduced and amount of cow's milk consumed had no connection with anemia, serum ferritin levels and iron-deficiency anemia.
CONCLUSION
The data showed no correlation between the cow's milk, milk bottle-using period and iron deficiency. But the data revealed that iron deficiency anemia is more likely in children who are breast fed for less than 6 months and over 12 months, so we suggest careful attention during this period to prevent iron deficiency anemia.