Since lead is absorbed into
the body through the same system as food, a child will be less likely
to be poisoned if he/she is eating the proper foods in the right amount.
Children should eat foods containing whole grains, calcium, vitamin C
and iron. The calcium and iron help prevent absorption of lead. It is
also important to eat less fat.
For specific information about the effect of nutrition on lead poisoning
prevention, contact the organizations below:
Providence Community Health
Centers
Allenberry Health Center (401) 444-0570
Capitol Hill Health Center (401) 444-0550
Central Health Center (401) 444-0580
Central High School Health Center (401) 444-0449
Fox Point Health Center (401) 444-0530
Olneyville Health Center (401) 444-0540
Rhode Island Department
of Health
Family Health Information Line
Phone: 1-800-942-7434
English or Spanish-speaking specialists.
University of Rhode Island
Cooperative Extension
Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program
Phone: (401) 277-5270
Web site: http://www.uri.edu/ce/efnep/
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
Phone: 1-800-942-7434
Vouchers for healthy food. Nutrition information. Must meet income guidelines.
Foods that work to prevent
lead absorption
CALCIUM-enriched foods
yogurt
milk
cheese
orange juice with calcium
dark green vegetables
foods made with milk
tofu
soy milk
IRON-rich foods
beef
chicken
eggs
fish (sardines, tuna)
dried fruits (raisins, dates)
red, white and black beans, lentils
green leafy vegetables
