All babies need vitamin D for their growth and development of their bones and teeth.
Babies who don’t get enough vitamin D, end up having weak soft bones and the chances of getting rickets is much higher.
When do you start Vitamin D?
You start vitamin D as soon as your baby is born.
How much Vitamin D should my baby be given?
400 IU per day.
Vitamin D is a must if -
Your baby is breastfed.
The mother has a deficiency of vitamin D.
They have dark skin
They don’t get enough sunlight.
Why do breastfed babies need vitamin D?
Breast milk has a very small amount of Vitamin D. It consists of only 4-40 IU per litre which is not sufficient for your baby.
Is it important to give vitamin D supplements to formula fed babies?
Babies who are given formula milk also need vitamin D. Even though formula milk does consist of vitamin D, it isn’t enough hence it is essential to give your baby 400 IU per day.
Vitamin D during your pregnancy.
Vitamin D supplements is a must during your pregnancy. If you have vitamin D deficiency it is possible that your baby would also have a deficiency of vitamin D. Ask your doctor how much vitamin D you need per day.