What to know:
A study has shown that a striking 90.4% of infants can have vitamin D deficiency, which can be more common in breastfed infants. This nutrient is particularly important for bone development and helps to absorb other nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. Additionally, it is important for brain development and immune system health.
What can be done to prevent vitamin D deficiency in little ones?
Although vitamin D drops can easily be added to breastmilk or placed on the nipple before a feeding, sunlight exposure is a great natural alternative if done safely. You can ensure things will be safe for your little one by following these tips:
• Go outside in the morning between 7 and 10 am.
• Do not be in the sunlight between 10 am – 4 pm. If you go out in the middle of the day, there could be a higher chance of sunburn if you stay out for too long without sun protection.
• Direct sunlight is recommended for 10 – 15 minutes a day.
• Ditch the clothing! This optimizes the benefits of sunlight and decreases the amount of time your little one needs to be in the sun to get an adequate about of vitamin D.
Source:
Choi, Y. J., Kim, M. K., & Jeong, S. J. (2013). Vitamin D deficiency in infants aged 1 to 6 months. Korean Journal of Pediatrics, 56(5), 205. https://doi.org/10.3345/kjp.2013.56.5.205
What to know:
A study has shown that a striking 90.4% of infants can have vitamin D deficiency, which can be more common in breastfed infants. This nutrient is particularly important for bone development and helps to absorb other nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. Additionally, it is important for brain development and immune system health.
What can be done to prevent vitamin D deficiency in little ones?
Although vitamin D drops can easily be added to breastmilk or placed on the nipple before a feeding, sunlight exposure is a great natural alternative if done safely. You can ensure things will be safe for your little one by following these tips:
• Go outside in the morning between 7 and 10 am.
• Do not be in the sunlight between 10 am – 4 pm. If you go out in the middle of the day, there could be a higher chance of sunburn if you stay out for too long without sun protection.
• Direct sunlight is recommended for 10 – 15 minutes a day.
• Ditch the clothing! This optimizes the benefits of sunlight and decreases the amount of time your little one needs to be in the sun to get an adequate about of vitamin D.
Source:
Choi, Y. J., Kim, M. K., & Jeong, S. J. (2013). Vitamin D deficiency in infants aged 1 to 6 months. Korean Journal of Pediatrics, 56(5), 205. https://doi.org/10.3345/kjp.2013.56.5.205
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