Iron and Vitamin D Deficiency in Healthy Young Children in Western Europe Despite Current Nutritional Recommendations

Summary

This cross-sectional study of 325 healthy toddlers across Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom (2012–2014) found that iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency affected 11.8% and 22.8% of the cohort respectively, despite adherence to current nutritional recommendations. Primary reliance on cow's milk was a strong risk factor for both deficiencies (odds ratios 3.20 and 7.17 respectively), whilst vitamin D supplementation was protective. The findings suggest that current guidance may be insufficient to prevent these common micronutrient deficiencies in healthy young children in Western Europe.

Regional applicability

This study directly included the United Kingdom as one of three participating countries (2012–2014), making the findings directly relevant to UK paediatric nutrition policy and practice. The high prevalence of both deficiencies in a relatively affluent, predominantly white population suggests that routine micronutrient screening and targeted intervention programmes may be warranted in UK early-years settings, particularly for children consuming primarily cow's milk.

Key measures

Serum ferritin (iron status), serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D status), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (infection marker), dietary intake, sun exposure, socioeconomic characteristics

Outcomes reported

The study measured prevalence of iron deficiency (serum ferritin <12 μg/L) and vitamin D deficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D <50 nmol/L) in 12–36-month-old children, and identified dietary and behavioural risk factors associated with these deficiencies.

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