References:

1. Caring for Kids – Vitamin D
2. MyHealth.Alberta.ca – Vitamin D for Babies and Children

What is Vitamin D and why does my Baby Need It?

• Babies need vitamin D for growth and development
  • Vitamin D helps build strong bones and teeth
• Babies who do not get enough vitamin D can become vitamin D deficient
  • If vitamin D levels are low, babies can develop Rickets
    • Rickets is a disease that affects the growth and development of bones

How Does my Baby Get Vitamin D?

• Sunlight
  • Vitamin D is formed when skin is exposed to sunlight
  • Babies should be protected from direct sunlight
• Foods
  • Some foods in Canada have vitamin D added, for example cow’s milk
• Vitamin supplements
  • For babies, vitamin D is given in the form of a liquid given with a dropper

Is my Baby at risk for Vitamin D Deficiency?

• If they are exclusively breastfed
• If the breastfeeding parent is not getting enough vitamin D in their diet
• If they have a darker complexion
• If they live in a northern community

How much vitamin D does my Baby Need?

• Breastfed babies should get 400 IU/day (international units/day)
  • There is very little vitamin D in breastmilk and it is not enough to meet your baby’s needs

How do I choose a Vitamin D Supplement?

• Consider a supplement that contains only vitamin D and no other added vitamins
  • Most babies do not need multivitamins and it is not recommended
• Look for a Natural Product Number (NPN)
  • This shows you that Health Canada has found the product to be safe and useful when following package directions
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist
  • Some babies who are breastfed and supplemented with formula may require a vitamin D supplement depending on the amount of formula they take each day
  • If your baby drinks more than 800 to 1000 mL/day of formula or cow’s milk, a vitamin D supplement is not required
• Choose the appropriate form of supplement
  • A lone drop supplement is easier to administer to babies
• Choose the appropriate dose
  • Choose a product that comes in a dose of 400 IU
    • Read the label carefully to ensure you are giving your baby the right dose
    • Different brands have different amounts of vitamin D
    • Always check the expiry date

Further Your Learning:

    1. MyHealth.Alberta.ca – Vitamin D for Babies and Children

Shareable Resource For Clients: 

     1. Caring for Kids – Vitamin D