How long can iron stored in a newborn's liver last if the mother's intake has been adequate?

The correct duration for which iron stored in a newborn's liver can last, given that the mother's dietary intake of iron has been adequate, is approximately five months. During gestation, the fetus accumulates iron primarily from the mother; this iron is stored in the liver and is critical for the newborn's early development, especially for the production of hemoglobin and to support growth.

Newborns are usually born with a significant amount of stored iron, which can sustain them for several months. In cases where the mother’s intake of iron was sufficient during pregnancy, the well-stored iron can typically last around five months. This period is important as it coincides with the time until dietary iron from external sources becomes necessary for the infant's growth and development, as the iron from the liver begins to be depleted.

As infants grow, their iron needs increase, and by around six months, they begin to require an external source of iron to prevent deficiencies, particularly as their growth rates accelerate. Thus, understanding the typical duration of iron storage helps inform appropriate dietary adjustments and monitoring for potential deficiency.