How Much Vitamin D Does My Child Need?
The arrival of a new baby brings immense joy to the family, and after a period of observation, doctors usually recommend supplementing the baby with vitamin D. But do you know how to properly supplement vitamin D for your child?
Vitamin D levels are measured in International Units (IU), and it is generally recommended to start supplementing newborns with vitamin D within the first week of life.
1. Infants (0-12 months)
- Recommended Dosage: 400 IU per day.
- Supplement Form: Infant formula typically contains 400 IU of vitamin D per liter, so babies who drink at least 32 ounces of formula daily are getting enough vitamin D. However, breastfed babies or those who consume less than 32 ounces of formula daily will need additional vitamin D supplementation. Liquid vitamin D drops are recommended for this age group, designed specifically for infants, and can be administered directly into the baby’s mouth or mixed into milk.
2. Toddlers (1-3 years)
- Recommended Dosage: 600 IU per day.
- Supplement Form: For toddlers, vitamin D supplements are usually available in chewable tablets or liquid forms. Parents can choose the form that best suits their child’s preferences. If the child cannot chew tablets, liquid drops are a good alternative.
3. School-Age Children (4-8 years)
- Recommended Dosage: 600 IU per day, although some children may require a higher dosage (e.g., 600-1000 IU), depending on their doctor’s advice.
- Supplement Form: Children in this age group typically can chew or swallow tablets. There are many chewable vitamin D tablets and gummies available on the market with various flavors that are appealing to children.
4. Teenagers (9-18 years)
- Recommended Dosage: 600-1000 IU per day, with the exact dosage depending on the child’s health and the doctor’s recommendations.
- Supplement Form: Teenagers can choose from tablets, capsules, or gummy forms of vitamin D supplements. For those who do not like swallowing pills, gummies or chewable tablets are a good option.
Important Considerations
- Follow Medical Advice: If your child has specific health conditions (such as obesity, bone disorders, or chronic illnesses), the doctor may recommend a higher dosage. Parents should always follow the doctor’s advice and not increase the dosage on their own.
- Choosing Supplements: With many supplement options available on the market, parents should carefully consider the appropriate age range, vitamin D content, and whether the supplement matches their child’s taste preferences.
By selecting the right vitamin D supplements, parents can help their children maintain healthy vitamin D levels, promoting proper bone development and overall health.
