Why do families need iron to prevent anemia?
To stay strong and healthy, the body needs iron. When you do not have enough iron in your blood, your body does not get the oxygen it needs to be healthy. Most people who are “anemic” have Iron Deficiency Anemia. Anemia can make you or your child look pale, feel tired and weak, act cranky, get sick more easily, get infections, develop lead poisoning and headaches, eat poorly, and have trouble learning. If you are pregnant, your baby could be born too small or too soon. To find out more about foods to prevent anemia, what to do if iron pills make you feel bad, and tips to prevent iron deficiency anemia, see our pamphlet You Can Prevent Iron Deficiency Anemia, English (PDF).
