What is the recommended iron supplementation for breastfed infants once they reach 4 months?

The recommended approach for iron supplementation in breastfed infants once they reach 4 months of age is to provide continuous supplementation until they start consuming iron-fortified cereals. Breast milk is an excellent source of nutrition but contains low levels of iron. By 4 to 6 months, the infant's natural iron stores, which they accumulate during pregnancy, begin to deplete. Introducing a continuous source of iron during this critical period helps prevent iron deficiency anemia, which can have negative effects on development.

This supplementation is particularly significant considering that many breastfed infants do not receive adequate iron from breast milk alone. Given that iron-fortified cereals are often introduced around 6 months of age, consistent iron supplementation ensures the infant receives adequate iron until they begin to consume these iron-rich foods. The presence of fortified cereals in the diet will help maintain iron levels, thus reducing the risk of deficiency.