Does my baby need to take vitamins? | BabyCenter
In most cases, breast milk or formula provides just about everything a baby needs for the first four to six months. The exception is vitamin D, which is recommended as a supplement for breastfed babies and babies who drink less than 32 ounces of formula per day. (See below for more details.)
After age 4 to 6 months, as your baby's diet gradually changes from an all-liquid diet to one that contains more and more solid food, your doctor may or may not recommend additional vitamin supplements.
Babies who eat a variety of foods over time shouldn't need them, but there are exceptions. For example, supplements may be necessary if your baby was born prematurely, at a low birth weight, or small for gestational age; consistently drinks less breast milk or formula than other babies his age and doesn't make up the difference with food: or has chronic health problems that affect his ability to eat. Be sure to ask your baby's healthcare provider if you have special concerns.
Your own health picture may come into play too. For example, women who have had gastric bypass surgery or who take certain medications daily may absorb fewer nutrients. This can reduce the nutrient content of their breast milk.
If you follow a vegan diet, tell your baby's healthcare provider. Vitamin B12, iron, zinc, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that vegan moms and babies may need to make an extra effort to consume through diet or a multivitamin-mineral supplement.
Read full article from Does my baby need to take vitamins? | BabyCenter
No comments:
Post a Comment