As a new parent, you want to give your baby the best start in life. One way to do this is by providing them with all the nutrients they need, including vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bone growth and development, and it is recommended that newborns receive a daily dose of vitamin D drops. However, giving your baby vitamin D drops can be a challenge, especially if you're a first-time parent. In this article, we will discuss the best way to give vitamin D drops to your newborn.
Why Do Newborns Need Vitamin D Drops?
Newborns are at a higher risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency because they do not get enough vitamin D from breast milk or formula. Vitamin D is important for the growth and development of strong bones and teeth. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to rickets, a condition that causes softening and weakening of the bones.
How Much Vitamin D Does A Newborn Need?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all breastfed and partially breastfed infants receive a daily supplement of 400 IU of vitamin D beginning in the first few days of life and continuing until they are weaned to at least 1 liter (about 1 quart) of fortified formula or whole milk per day.
When Should You Give Vitamin D Drops To Your Newborn?
Vitamin D drops should be given to your newborn within the first few days of life. This is because newborns do not produce enough vitamin D on their own and need to get it from other sources.
How To Give Vitamin D Drops To Your Newborn
There are a few ways to give vitamin D drops to your newborn. Here are some tips:
Use A Dropper
Most vitamin D drops come with a dropper. Use the dropper to place the drops directly into your baby's mouth. Make sure to aim for the inside of the cheek, not the back of the throat. This will make it easier for your baby to swallow the drops.
Put Drops On A Pacifier
If your baby uses a pacifier, you can put the drops on the pacifier before giving it to your baby. This will allow your baby to suck on the pacifier and get the vitamin D drops at the same time.
Mix Drops With Food or Drink
You can also mix the vitamin D drops with breast milk, formula, or other food or drinks that your baby is consuming. However, make sure to check with your pediatrician before doing this, as some foods and drinks may interfere with the absorption of vitamin D.
How Often Should You Give Vitamin D Drops To Your Newborn?
You should give your newborn vitamin D drops every day until they are weaned to at least 1 liter (about 1 quart) of fortified formula or whole milk per day. This usually happens around 12 months of age.
What To Do If You Miss A Dose?
If you miss a dose of vitamin D drops, do not double up on the next dose. Just give the next dose at the regular time. If you have trouble remembering to give your baby vitamin D drops every day, set a reminder on your phone or calendar.
Conclusion
Giving your newborn vitamin D drops is essential for their bone growth and development. It can be a challenge to give them the drops, but using a dropper, putting drops on a pacifier, or mixing drops with food or drink can make it easier. Remember to give your baby the recommended daily dose of vitamin D drops until they are weaned to at least 1 liter (about 1 quart) of fortified formula or whole milk per day. Monitor your baby's vitamin D levels with the help of your pediatrician to ensure they are getting enough of this important nutrient.
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