This study assessed anthropometric measurements and developmental and laboratory outcomes in children born to women who received daily iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation, twice weekly IFA, or twice weekly multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation (all with 60 mg of elemental iron) during pregnancy. At 36 months of age, children of mothers provided with low-dose iron supplementation during pregnancy (twice weekly IFA or MMN) had lower heights, lower height-for-age z-scores, and lower motor composite scores at 36 months than children of mother provided with daily IFA. Authors concluded that daily IFA has beneficial effects on child growth at 36 months of age in comparison with low-dose supplementation.
Sarah Hanieh et al. BMJ Global Health (September, 2017).