Effectiveness of consumption of iron-fortified food products in increasing haemoglobin in children aged 6 months to 6 years: A systematic review

Abstract

Objetive. To evaluate the effectiveness of consuming iron-fortified foods in increasing hemoglobin levels in children under 6 months to 6 years of age with or without anemia. Materials and Methods. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), LILACS and Scopus, following PRISMA guidelines. The process of compiling scientific articles was carried out through the Rayyan program, using an independent peer review system by the three authors. To evaluate the risk of bias, the ROB 1 tool was used, which is exclusive for evaluating randomized clinical trials. Results. From 599 studies identified, 5 randomized experimental trials were selected for review, the studies were conducted in Brazil, Cameroon, India, and Western Europe. Fortified food included bread, rice, powdered milk, formula, and infant cereals. Although an increase in hemoglobin and serum iron levels was observed in children who consumed iron-fortified food, increments were not significant in most trials. More favorable results were evident when food was also enriched with vitamins A, C and D. Conclusions. The consumption of iron-fortified food could be effective in reducing iron deficiency, increasing hemoglobin levels in children from 6 months to 6 years.