Should we give a supplement of vitamin D to our child?

Vitamin D is essential to health. It has a particularly important role with respect to healthy bones and teeth because it facilitates the absorption of calcium. It prevents rickets in children. It would also play a role in heart health, reduce the risk of developing certain cancers and could be involved in the prevention of multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The body produces vitamin D when skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays of the sun. However, it is well known that unsafe exposure to sunlight increases the risk of developing skin cancer. To limit this risk, it is recommended to use sunscreen, wear a hat and limit sun exposure when the rays are strongest. But all these precautions reduce the production of vitamin D in the body. It is therefore appropriate to turn to the second way to fill its need for vitamin D: diet and / or vitamin D.

The need for vitamin D is 10 mcg (400 IU) for infants from 0 to 12 months and 5 micrograms (200 IU) for children aged 1 to 3 years.

The best dietary sources of vitamin D are: fish (salmon, tuna, herring, sardines, sole, trout, etc.), Oysters, egg yolk, milk, fortified soy beverages and margarine.

And how about the supplements?

A breastfed baby, born at term and healthy, should receive a supplement of 10 mcg (400 IU) of vitamin D daily. By cons, there is no need to supplement infants fed with infant formula because it is fortified with vitamin D. Do not overdo! Before the age of one year, a vitamin D greater than 25 micrograms (1000ui) per day can delay the growth of the child.

When your child is not anymore breastfeeded, 4 cup (s) milk or fortified soy beverages are sufficient to meet its needs for vitamin D if aged under 12 months and only 2 cups of milk or fortified soy beverages if over 12 months.

For more information, please consult a nutritionist. It will guide you as food and needs of your child.