Study: Iron deficiencies linked to mother-child bond

Author: chakefaye
Iron deficiency has always been looked to as an adverse contributor to mothers and children during pregnancy. Low iron levels have been linked to pre-term delivery, low birth weight and increased maternal mortality.

In a recent nine-month long study of iron deficiency conducted by Dr. Laura Murray-Kolb of John Hopkins University, it has been revealed that low iron levels can potentially affect a mother’s ability to bond with her children after birth. In North America, it’s believed that at least 53% of new mothers are deficient in iron, as stated by the World Health Organization.

Dr. Murray-Kolb was able to observe a link between iron deficiency and mother to child interactions. As the population of mothers become younger there is a greater possibility that many of these young women are at risk for this type of disassociate behavior when caring for their children.

In the study half of the iron-deficient mothers received iron supplements and the other half did not. Her studies found that those given iron supplements were more emotionally available for their children more quickly than those who had not been given the supplements. The iron-deficient women were less interested in their children and were less sensitive to their baby’s cues. These mothers also appeared bored or distance more frequently than other mothers.

This iron deficiency not only affected the mothers, but the children as well. These children were often less responsive and less involved with their mothers. When physically moving away from the mother, the child was often less dependent on her for reassurance:

Our new results suggest that the effects of mild iron deficiency – which are easily correctable with supplements can disrupt the solid foundation that is established by healthy mother/infant interactions.

The importance of taking iron supplements is always important but significantly elevates during pregnancy. Iron supplements and supplements containing iron will help to foster a healthy bond and relationship between mother and child and will also decrease risk of infant preterm delivery, low birth weight and maternal mortality.