Nutrition Facts

Identification and removal of lead sources is the first intervention when a child is lead burdened. "There have been no human trials indicating that any nutritional intervention affects children's lead retention...there is much animal evidence and some evidence in humans that nutritional interventions can decrease lead retention and there is reason to believe that these measures would be especially successful (at lower levels of exposure)." (Sargent James. The Role of Nutrition in Prevention of Lead Poisoning in Children. Pediatric Annals 23:11. Nov 94, 636-42.)

1. Children absorb approximately 50% of ingested lead. Lead absorption is decreased when there is food in the stomach.
   • Stress the importance of regular meals.
   • Offer mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks.
   
   
2. "Children with iron deficiency absorb a greater portion of dietary iron compared with iron-replete children. The mechanism that promotes iron absorption in iron-deficient children also may promote greater absorption of lead...Lead...appears more neurotoxic to animals that are iron deficient." (Sargent)
   • Evaluate and treat iron deficiency. Iron supplements should not be given with milk products.
   • Offer foods high in iron if the child is iron-deficient.
   
   
3. "..calcium inhibits the absorption of lead in mammals by binding to and displacing lead from common mucosal carriers on the intestinal tract...Dietary phosphorus also inhibits lead absorption...These two dietary factors show additive effects when given together...they must be present with the lead as it passes through the absorptive areas of the intestinal tracts." (Sargent)
   • Give 4 to 6 ounces of milk or yogurt with meals and snacks.
   • Calcium can also be supplied through snacks and calcium supplements.
   
   
4. "Low dietary intake of vitamin C and iron may increase lead levels in blood, and a low vitamin D intake can be linked to lead accumulation in bones.." (American Journal of Epidemiology 1998; 147:1662-1174.)
   • Encourage a diet high in vitamins C and D.
   
   
5. Lead poisoning, as well as poor eating habits, qualify children for WIC. Refer to WIC Program Information when appropriate.