ODS workshop examines role of iron in women and children
The Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) workshop, Screening and Supplementation of Iron-replete Pregnant Women and Young Children, was held Sept. 28–29, at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, MD. The workshop sought to explore the current understanding of iron metabolism in pregnant women and in young children; to identify the challenges associated with measuring iron status; and to consider emerging issues associated with iron supplementation in pregnant women who have adequate iron levels. Experts from the U.S., Europe, and Canada discussed current understandings and research needs for future evidence-based evaluations. Read more...
Research shows that iron is required for normal development of the placenta and fetus and for maternal health—and that iron requirement increases during pregnancy. Emerging mechanistic, animal, in vitro, and human epidemiological data, as well as randomized, controlled trials, also suggest possible adverse health effects of high iron intake/status, including development of gestational diabetes and impaired growth and development. However, the overall evidence is limited and inconsistent. At the end of the two-day workshop, experts identified areas of priority for research and researching funding, including iron physiology and biomarkers. More information and videocasts of the Workshop are available on the ODS Iron Initiative website.
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