Question
A 2-month-old baby underwent a trace element test, with the results showing copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron levels at 14.5, 53.2, 1.56, 1.25, and 6.39 respectively. Do these results indicate a deficiency in zinc and iron for the baby? Recently, the baby often develops acne and suddenly wakes up crying during naps; could this also be due to a calcium deficiency? How should these nutritional issues be addressed?
Answer
The trace element test for the baby shows slightly low levels of zinc and iron but not severely. Consider giving the baby a calcium and zinc oral liquid supplement. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, mackerel, small fish skin, seaweed, fish meal, sesame seeds, peanuts, pork liver, and beans. To increase iron intake, you can consume sesame seeds, black fungus, cauliflower, animal organs, rapeseed, mushrooms, and more. If the baby is too young to eat solid food, you can cook the food and then mash it for consumption. If the baby is breastfed, the mother should also incorporate food supplements into her diet.