Absolutely! Vitamin D3 plays a vital role in your baby's bone and overall health development. It helps their bodies absorb calcium, which is essential for building strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D3 also supports brain development and a healthy immune system.
Newborns have limited vitamin D stores, passed on from their mothers during pregnancy. Breast milk can provide some vitamin D, but it's often not enough to meet a baby's growing needs.
Without sufficient vitamin D3, an infant can develop rickets, a condition that causes soft and malformed bones. In severe cases, vitamin D deficiency can also lead to seizures or breathing difficulties.
To prevent these complications, paediatricians often recommend supplementing breastfed babies and formula-fed babies (who consume less than 1 liter of formula daily) with 400 IU of vitamin D3 drops daily. It's best to start supplementation soon after birth and continue until your baby is at least 18 months old.
While the general recommendation is 400 IU of vitamin D3 daily for newborns to 18 months, it's important to discuss your baby's specific needs with their paediatrician. Your paediatrician can provide personalised advice and ensure your baby receives the optimal amount of Vitamin D3 for healthy development.
