However, instructions may vary by product, so it’s always a good idea to read the label first. Typically, vitamin D drops can be administered by placing a drop directly on the nipple of the breast or bottle just as you begin to feed your baby. What is the best way to give my baby vitamin D drops? If a baby is formula-fed, no supplementation is needed as long as they are consuming at least 32 ounces (946 mL) of formula per day ( 1 ). Partially breastfed babies should be given 400 IU per day until they are consuming 1 quart (1 L) of infant formula per day or until they turn 12 months old ( 1 ). If your baby does not get enough vitamin D, they could be at risk for a vitamin D deficiency.įrequently asked questions How old should my baby be before taking vitamin D drops?īabies who are exclusively breastfed can start vitamin D drops in the first few days of life and should be given 400 IU of vitamin D drops per day until they are 12 months old. However, these foods should not be given to a baby until they are old enough to consume solids.ĭiscuss your needs with your baby’s doctor.
Vitamin D is found in many food sources, including fatty fish, cod liver oil, eggs, and mushrooms. However, if you’re exclusively nursing or feeding less than 32 ounces (946 mL) of formula per day, pediatricians recommend giving your baby a supplement.Įven though breast milk is considered a “perfect food” for your growing baby, it likely doesn’t contain enough vitamin D to support your baby’s needs - even if you are taking a supplement yourself. If you’re feeding your baby formula sold in the United States, it’s fortified with enough vitamin D that a supplement isn’t necessary.
This can be tricky for infants younger than 6 months old, who should be kept out of direct sunlight - a natural source of vitamin D - because they’re too young for sunscreen ( 1, 2). The AAP recommends that infants receive 400 IU of vitamin D daily.
Most of us know about the benefits of vitamin D for bone health but may not realize that vitamin D also has potential benefits for mental health, immune function, and brain development in children, notes Elisa Song, MD, a holistic pediatrician.
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