After the baby is born, their growth and development are rapid, and their demand for various nutrients, especially calcium, is high. Generally, newborns do not need to supplement calcium because the calcium obtained from breast milk is sufficient for their needs. Calcium supplementation usually begins after 45 days. So, what are the consequences of calcium deficiency in babies? How can we supplement calcium for babies?
Consequences of Calcium Deficiency in Babies
Delayed Growth and Development
Calcium deficiency in children can lead to delayed growth and development. For example, delayed teething, delayed walking, and stunted growth.
Difficulty Sleeping
Calcium deficiency can make babies irritable and restless, often crying for no apparent reason, and have difficulty falling asleep. Even if they do fall asleep, they are easily awakened.
Excessive Sweating
Babies with calcium deficiency tend to sweat more, even in not-so-hot weather.
How to Supplement Calcium for Babies
Proper Sun Exposure
Regularly let the baby engage in outdoor activities, and in the summer, do so under the shade of a tree, so that the baby's skin can be exposed to ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet radiation promotes the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol stored in the skin to vitamin D3 through photochemical reactions. Sunlight exposure allows the skin to store vitamin D3 for later use without causing an excess of vitamin D. When sunbathing, avoid doing so through glass windows, as very little ultraviolet radiation can penetrate through them. Also, try to expose as much skin as possible to increase the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin.
Oral Calcium Supplements
There are many calcium preparations available, and parents can choose calcium-rich inorganic calcium, such as calcium carbonate and calcium lactate, which dissolve upon entry and are available in special calcium supplementation kits for infants. Start taking them half a month to 1 month after birth and continue until the age of 2 and a half or 3. When supplementing calcium, it is important to also supplement vitamin D to promote the absorption and utilization of calcium in the intestines. Avoid adding calcium supplements to milk, rice soup, or porridge, as phytic acid in these foods can affect calcium absorption and lead to decreased calcium absorption in the body. It is best to take calcium supplements between meals, as this allows for better utilization of calcium in the body. Taking them during meals can easily affect the absorption rate of calcium.
Taking Calcium in the Form of Milk Calcium
Milk calcium products are extracted from pure natural milk and are gentle on the stomach, making them especially suitable for infants and young children. Milk calcium is in liquid oil form, and for infants under 1 year old, you can cut open the end of the capsule and squeeze it onto a spoon or the baby's bottle nipple for them to lick. For children over 3 years old, they can chew it directly. Alternatively, it can be added to milk, juice, or other complementary foods for easy feeding, making it especially suitable for infants and young children.
