Do babies need a vitamin D supplement?
Do babies need a vitamin D supplement?
Most of the vitamin D in our body is made when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D helps calcium absorption in the gut and keeps bones strong. If infants' and children's vitamin D levels are persistently low, calcification of their bones will be affected. As a result, their bones may become soft and deformed and are prone to fracture.
Breastmilk has many benefits, but, like other foods, it does not contain much vitamin D. Exclusively breastfed babies are at risk of not getting adequate vitamin D if they are mostly staying indoors, having clothing covering their arms and legs when being outdoors, or of darker skin. If needed, parents can consider giving a vitamin D supplement to their babies after consulting doctors, nurses, dietitians or pharmacists. Parents should also read the instruction on the package of the supplement.
Do babies taking both breastmilk and infant formula need a vitamin D supplement?
Infant formulae are added with vitamin D. According to overseas guideline, for babies taking both breastmilk and infant formula, if majority of their intake is not from infant formula (for example less than 500ml a day), they need a vitamin D supplement1.
Babies with medical needs
Some babies may need to supplement vitamin D due to their medical problems (e.g. prematurity). Parents should follow the doctor's advice.
Reference:
- UNICEF United Kingdom. (2017). UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative Infosheet Statement on Vitamin D supplementation for breastfed babies.