Private MD News

Iron testing could benefit child's health

Category: General Wellness

Part of a child's healthy diet could be summed up with a popular advertising phrase from the past: Beef, it's what's for dinner.

A Houston dietitian was recently interviewed for the food section on Chron.com and was touting the importance of serving beef to developing children.

Veronica Juarez focused on making a "savory pot roast" for kids in a slow cooker because it's a popular meal and because of its nutritional value.

"The best part of this meal is the lean beef chuck and vegetables that help to support your child's growth and development and may actually improve their school performance by helping to reduce the incidence of vitamin and mineral deficiencies," Juarez said.

According to the dietician, a 3-ounce piece of lean beef can hold a number of nutrients such as protein, zinc and iron.

The latter may be the most important, especially for children going back to school. An iron deficiency has been linked to decreased cognitive and social function.

Parents who are concerned about their child's iron levels may want to get a blood test to ensure their son or daughter doesn't have a deficiency. Many have opted to get a lab test online due to the long waits at local doctor's offices and for the convenience.