Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and development. According to experts, all children need vitamin D beginning shortly after birth. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) currently recommends that babies younger than 12 months old need 400 IU of vitamin D each day and toddlers, older children, and adolescents need 600 IU of vitamin D each day.
Studies suggest that many children aren’t getting enough of this essential vitamin. For infants, vitamin D is crucial for building strong bones and preventing rickets.
According to Mayo Clinic, vitamin D supplementation depends on whether you breastfeed your baby or how much formula with vitamin D your baby drinks. While breast milk is the best source of nutrients for babies, it likely won’t give them enough vitamin D.
These are the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics for vitamin D for babies:
Breastfed or partly breastfed babies need 400 international units (IU) of liquid vitamin D a day. This should start soon after birth. Babies need this amount of vitamin D supplement until weaned or until they drink 32 ounces (about 1 liter) a day of formula with added vitamin D.
Formula-fed babies getting less than 32 ounces (about 1 liter) a day of formula with vitamin D need 400 IU of liquid vitamin D a day. This should start soon after birth. Babies need this amount of vitamin D supplement until they drink at least 32 ounces (about 1 liter) of formula with added vitamin D a day.
For infants, vitamin D supplement is available in various liquid forms. It is noteworthy that chewable vitamins are generally regarded as safe for children over the age of three who can chew hard foods and candy.
According to Mayo Clinic, you shouldn’t give liquid vitamin D to the baby more than the suggested amount. A report by Cleveland Clinic suggests that vitamin D drops can be given to the baby until they begin drinking fortified whole milk daily. However, consult a pediatrician before giving any supplement to the baby.
