If your kid drinks milk and plays outside, does that give them enough vitamin D? Well, not exactly. Maybe a few years ago it could have been enough, but lifestyle changes and sunscreen usage are making vitamin D absorption more difficult. Sunscreen helps block the harmful rays of the sun, but it also prevents your child from getting enough vitamin D. However, vitamin D is an essential nutrient as it helps ensure the absorption of calcium and phosphorous. Vitamin deficiency may also lead to rickets, a bone-softening disease in children. So, what now? The best solution for this dilemma is vitamin D supplements. For babies, you can give them Organic Vitamin D Drops For Infants.
The ABCs of Vitamin D
Here are some simple guidelines you can follow to ensure that your child is getting enough vitamin D.
- It is recommended that breastfed babies are organic vitamin D drops for infantsto meet their 400 IU daily vitamin D requirement.
- Formula-fed infants who consume less than 32 ounces of vitamin D fortified milk a day should be given vitamin D supplements of 400 IU per day.
- Children with certain medical conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, that increase their risk of vitamin D deficiency need higher doses of vitamin D. Consult with a pediatrician for the exact dosage.
Natural Sources of Vitamin D
Aside from sunlight and vitamin supplements, certain enriched foods are rich in vitamin D. For older children; you can try adding some of these food sources to their daily diet.
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Sardines
- Tuna
- Shitake mushroom
- Egg
These natural food sources can help increase your childs vitamin D intake. You can also add vitamin D fortified foods, such as cereals, milk, yogurt, orange juice, and margarine to your childs diet.