Newborns with low birth weights may benefit from iron-enriched supplements, according to findings published in the journal Pediatrics.

During a recent trial, researchers observed how iron droplets affected a total of 285 infants aged 6 weeks to 6 months who were categorized as low birth weight babies. The patients were split into three groups, and were given either a placebo, 1 or 2 mg of iron.

The researchers discovered that of the 6-week old babies who were given 2 mg of the supplement, 4 percent had a low iron count in their bodies, and had a zero percent chance of anemia by 6 months old. However, 36 percent of the same age group who didn’t receive the drops had poor iron content, and were 10 percent more likely to suffer from anemia by age 6 months.

The team concluded that iron drops prove beneficial for infants with low birth weights, and these results showed no signs of complicating the child’s growth and immune system. Furthermore, the researchers suggest that these findings could improve future nutritional recommendations for these at-risk babies.

In addition to supplements, people looking to improve their iron intake can benefit from eating eggs, nuts, cereals, beans and chicken, according to Ohio State University.