Breast Fed Infants May Need Supplements Of Vitamin
Breastfeeding is the best way to provide infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Breast milk contains all the essential nutrients that a baby needs, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins. However, recent studies have shown that breastfed infants may require additional supplements of vitamin D.
Why Vitamin D Is Important For Infants?
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium, which is critical for building strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in regulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and protecting against certain diseases. Infants who do not get enough vitamin D may be at risk of developing rickets, a condition that can cause weak bones and teeth.
Why Breastfed Infants May Need Additional Vitamin D?
Although breast milk contains vitamin D, the amount is often not enough to meet the daily requirements of the infant. This is especially true for babies who are exclusively breastfed and do not receive any other sources of vitamin D. Additionally, infants who have darker skin or are born prematurely may also require additional supplements of vitamin D.
How Much Vitamin D Does An Infant Need?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants, including those who are exclusively breastfed, receive 400 international units (IU) of vitamin D per day from birth until 12 months of age. This can be achieved through a combination of sunlight exposure, vitamin D-fortified foods, and supplements.
How To Ensure Adequate Vitamin D Intake For Breastfed Infants?
One way to ensure that breastfed infants receive adequate vitamin D is to give them a daily supplement of 400 IU. Vitamin D drops specifically designed for infants are available over the counter and can be added to a bottle or applied directly to the nipple before breastfeeding.
Another way to increase vitamin D intake is to expose infants to sunlight. However, it is important to note that too much sun exposure can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to limit sun exposure and to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.
It is also important to include vitamin D-rich foods in the infant's diet once they start eating solid foods. Some examples of vitamin D-rich foods include fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified cereals.
The Bottom Line
Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. However, breastfed infants may require additional supplements of vitamin D to ensure adequate intake. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about the best way to ensure that an infant receives enough vitamin D for healthy growth and development.