Why is Vitamin D important for babies?
Many mothers worry about their babies not getting enough calcium, but the root cause is actually a lack of Vitamin D. So what is the role of Vitamin D? Do babies need to supplement Vitamin D? What are the best ways to supplement Vitamin D? Below, I will answer these questions for you.
Vitamin D is the most important factor for the healthy growth and development of a baby's bones.
What happens if a baby doesn't get enough Vitamin D?
If a baby doesn't get enough Vitamin D, it can lead to "rickets," which causes changes in the bones such as square skull, pigeon chest, bow-leggedness (X-shaped legs), and knock-knees (O-shaped legs).
Which babies are more likely to lack Vitamin D?
Babies who are exclusively breastfed, or babies who are breastfed and formula-fed, have lower levels of Vitamin D in breast milk. The following babies are more likely to have a deficiency of Vitamin D:
Premature babies; babies who have little exposure to sunlight; babies with dark skin; babies who drink little milk; babies with certain medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis or celiac disease.
How can parents ensure that their babies get enough Vitamin D?
Directly supplementing Vitamin D is the best way to ensure that babies get enough Vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements are available in capsule form as well as liquid form.
How much Vitamin D does a baby need?
Experts recommend supplementing babies with 400 to 600 units of Vitamin D from a few days after birth. As for the specific dosage and timing of Vitamin D supplementation, it is best for parents to consult with a pediatrician, as the required dosage varies depending on the baby's feeding and dietary habits.
Is it necessary to test the baby's Vitamin D levels? Are there any testing methods?
In general, testing is not necessary. Doctors may require a Vitamin D test based on the baby's specific situation, and the level of Vitamin D in the baby's body can be tested through a blood test.
Which foods can babies get Vitamin D from?
The following foods are rich in Vitamin D:
Formula milk, milk, yogurt, orange juice; Vitamin D-fortified rice cereal or porridge; cod liver oil; salmon or mackerel fish.
Sunlight exposure to the baby's skin can also help synthesize Vitamin D, so regular outdoor activities provide babies with Vitamin D while they exercise.
