What should a parent of a 10-year-old with iron-deficiency anemia do regarding iron supplements?

Administering iron supplements with orange juice is an effective choice because vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract. When a child takes iron combined with orange juice, the ascorbic acid in the citrus juice helps convert iron into a more bioavailable form, making it easier for the body to absorb. This is particularly important in the case of iron-deficiency anemia, where optimizing iron intake is crucial for improvement in hemoglobin levels and overall health.

In contrast, while administering iron tablets with water may not be harmful, it does not provide the same absorption benefit as pairing with vitamin C-rich juice. Taking iron tablets with food can reduce absorption; thus, it's generally recommended to take them on an empty stomach unless gastrointestinal side effects necessitate otherwise. Finally, storing iron tablets in the refrigerator is unnecessary; they should be kept in a cool, dry place.