Question
Recently, a three-month-old baby was found to have a pale complexion and nails with a lighter color. After a blood test, the doctor diagnosed it as physiological anemia with a hemoglobin level of 8.7. How should one handle the baby’s physiological anemia? What causes physiological anemia, and does it have any adverse effects on the child’s growth?
Answer
Does physiological anemia have any adverse effects on the baby’s growth? Physiological anemia typically occurs in babies between 2 and 3 months old, due to a decrease in erythropoietin after birth, leading to reduced red blood cell production. During infancy, weight gain is rapid, and blood volume expands quickly, diluting the blood. As the child grows older, the levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin will gradually return to normal. In addition to medication, physiological anemia can also be improved through diet, such as consuming foods rich in iron like celery, lean meat, and soy sauce. It is recommended to consume nutrient-rich foods to promote