Question
My baby is 2 months old. The last trace element test results were as follows: copper 14.5 (reference range 11.8-39.3), zinc 53.2 (reference range 58-100), calcium 1.56 (reference range 1.55-2.10), magnesium 1.25 (reference range 1.12-2.06), iron 6.39 (reference range 7.52-11.82). Based on these results, does the baby have zinc and iron deficiencies? Lately, the baby often has acne, and suddenly wakes up crying during naps. Does this also mean a calcium deficiency? How should we handle the baby’s iron and calcium deficiencies?
Answer
If the baby is breastfed, the zinc and iron deficiencies are not severe and can be supplemented with calcium and zinc oral liquids. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, mackerel, dried small fish, seaweed, fish meal, sesame seeds, peanuts, pork liver, and beans. To increase iron intake, you can eat more sesame seeds, black fungus, cauliflower, animal liver, rapeseed, and mushrooms. If the baby is too young, you can cook the food and then mash it for consumption. If the baby is breastfed, the mother can also supplement her diet at the same time.