Cow' milk is a main food in human nutrition, even beyond the weaning period, at least in Causasian population. In the last few years, through the web or other non-conventional information technologies some negative ideas on the intake of cow's milk have arisen. Mostly they are aprioristic positions with little scientific evidence. In this paper we will review the role on cow's milk intake in the development of ferropenic anemia, the causes of lactose intolerance or the prevalence of cow's milk allergy beyond infancy. Some voices have pointed a disputable role of cow's milk in the development of metabolic syndrome or other chronic non-transmissible diseases. Even autistic disorders or mucous production have being associated with the intake of cow's milk. Strengthnesses and weaknesses of these arguments will be reviewed. Some practical points will be set at the end of the papers.

Cow' milk is a main food in human nutrition, even beyond the weaning period, at least in Causasian population. In the last few years, through the web or other non-conventional information technologies some negative ideas on the intake of cow's milk have arisen. Mostly they are aprioristic positions with little scientific evidence. In this paper we will review the role on cow's milk intake in the development of ferropenic anemia, the causes of lactose intolerance or the prevalence of cow's milk allergy beyond infancy. Some voices have pointed a disputable role of cow's milk in the development of metabolic syndrome or other chronic non-transmissible diseases. Even autistic disorders or mucous production have being associated with the intake of cow's milk. Strengthnesses and weaknesses of these arguments will be reviewed. Some practical points will be set at the end of the papers.

Iron is an essential nutrient that is involved in numerous biological reactions. Iron deficiency causes anemia, and iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type in children worldwide. Reversal of iron deficiency anemia usually cannot be accomplished by dietary means alone. Adequate therapy must not only correct the deficiency, but also treat its cause. In some cases, when oral therapy fails, it is necessary to administer iron parenterally. Intravenous iron therapy provides iron more rapidly and, thus, contributes to an earlier recovery from anemia. Iron sucrose is a safe and valuable parenteral iron preparation that may be used in pediatric patients with no response or intolerance to oral preparations.

Etiology of iron deficiency of anemia is examined, especially nutritional causes. An approach to its diagnosis is made with special reference to laboratory findings and differential diagnosis. The risk populations are indicated and the nutritional recommendations for the prevention both in breast-fed babies as scholars and adolescents are given. A guideline about pharmacological treatment, including oral and parenteral iron therapy, its costs and preparation follow-up is proposed.

The prevalence of iron deficiency in the population, especially in children is checked. The available data is analyzed about the neuropsychological repercussion and the possible consequences of iron deficiency on the growth in patients that do not require it. The actual recommendations are exposed of a daily intake of iron and the most relevant aspects of iron metabolism from a clinician perspective are delineated.