Premium
The effect of an iron enriched powder supplement on hemoglobin level and other changes among preschool children in Mexico Mazahua area
Author(s) -
Avila Abelardo,
Labrada Thanya S,
Lin Yumei,
Galindo Carlos
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.25.1_supplement.769.26
Subject(s) - hemoglobin , iron status , medicine , environmental health , iron deficiency , anemia
The effect of a colorless and tasteless iron enriched powder supplement (IEPS, 12.5 mg Fe/sachet), which can be added to the food directly, on hemoglobin level, other changes and acceptability were evaluated by recruiting 300 anemia (≤11.8 g/dL) children (1–5 y) from Mexico Mazahua area. This was a 182‐days controlled open‐label randomized by community study. 137 kids received IEPS (1 sachet/day) and 159 kids received ferrous sulfate in syrup (FSS, 6 mon 3 bottles), as the positive control. All kids received nutritional packages (e.g., rice, bean, etc) and nutrition education program was provided to the caregivers bi‐weekly. 125 kids from the IEPS group and 134 kids from the FSS group completed the study. IEPS significantly reduced anemia prevalence from 96.8% to 19.2% (Day 98), and finally to 7.2%. A similar effect was also found in the FSS group (98.5% to 16.4% to 8.2%). Low body weight (IEPS: 16.0% to 9.6%; FSS: 22.4% to 17.9%) and short stature prevalence (IEPS: 46.4% to 28.0%; FSS: 48.5% to 38.1%) was also reduced in both groups. Improving in energy level, learning ability, and social engagement were observed in both groups. The number of reported adverse events in both groups was similar and none of them were considered as related to the tested products. Overall, IEPS is safe, effective to reduce iron deficiency anemia. It is acceptable by preschool children in Mexico. To maximize its effect, offering in conjunction with nutritional packages and nutrition education program is recommended.