Research:

Babies of low birth weight are prone to both iron deficiency and behavioural problems later on.

A study of early iron supplementation given to babies born under 2.5 kg found no effect on later cognitive function at 3.5 years of age, but there was a significant reduction in the prevalence of behavioural problems at this stage.

The researchers suggest a causal association between infant iron deficiency and behavioural problems.

Source:

Pediatrics 2013;131:47-55.