Nutrition &
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Children need to have plenty of iron in their system.
Nutrition can play a pivotal role in preventing childhood lead poisoning. It is important to help minimize the amount of lead that is absorbed and stored in the bones. Good nutrition helps accomplish this goal. A child's body requires certain minerals, especially calcium and iron. When these minerals are deficient in the body, lead absorption is increased. Children whose diet is deficient in these minerals retain more of the lead than they would have otherwise.
Foods are rich in iron
When there is more iron than lead, the body will absorb the iron.
Iron-fortified cereals
Green leafy vegetables
Pureed meats
Lean red meats
Tuna, salmon, fish
Raisins, dates, and prunes
Dried beans and peas
Skinless poultry
Nuts or sunflower seeds
Foods Rich in Calcium
Foods that are high in calcium can also help the body absorb less lead.
Milk and milk products
Cheese and Yogurt
Green leafy vegetables
Calcium-enriched orange juice
Tofu
Salmon
Peanuts
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C will help the body absorb more iron and calcium.
Oranges and tangerines
Grapefruit
Limes and lemons
Strawberries
Cantaloupe
Kiwi
Potatoes and sweet potatoes
Tomatoes
Broccoli
Bell peppers
For information on programs and events for Nutrition and Lead Poisoning Prevention
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