Importance of Vitamin D for Infants
Give Your Child Some Sun

Over the past years, Vitamin D, which is also known as “sunshine” vitamin, is in the news. Basically, Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids, which has two forms: Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has also recommended in their policy statement that all infants, including those who depend on breastfeed must have the minimum intake of Vitamin D up to 200 IU (International Units) during the first 2 months. Moreover, it also includes the recommendation of 200 IU throughout the life. The major source of Vitamin D is sunlight. However, according to AAP guidelines, it is clearly stated that babies under 6-7 months of age should never be exposed to the sun. And, the older babies should only be exposed after proper sun protection.

The most common problem that is caused due to the deficiency of Vitamin D is rickets. Earlier, it was believed that the calcium is the only component that affects the bones. However, some studies suggest that the deficiency of Vitamin D is equally responsible. Vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium from the blood stream. In lack of Vitamin D there will be no secretion of hormone and stimulation to induce the process. Moreover, it is also believed that Vitamin D deficiency also leads to the respiratory problems like asthma and lung infection.

Moreover, a study conducted at the Queensland University Brain Institute concludes that the newborn babies with low Vitamin D level may have the double risk of diseases like schizophrenia in future. Schizophrenia is a brain related disorder, which is a result of improper growth of brain. The study also concludes that these disorders in infants can be reduced by improving the level of Vitamin D in the blood stream of the pregnant women. The requirement of Vitamin D in a baby can be fulfilled by the breast feeding. However, it is important that the mother must have an adequate amount of Vitamin D in the body.

Normally, per liter of breast milk contains around 20 IU to 60 IU. This much level of Vitamin D in breast milk is inadequate for the people of colder reason. This is why additional supplement of Vitamin D is recommended to the mothers who live in northern climate (where sunlight condition is poor). Moreover, it is also recommended that baby (above 6-7 months of age) must be exposed to sunlight after the sunscreen protection. Usually, experts recommended the good sunscreen lotion and protective garments for a child, which can prevent from UV rays.

The requirement of Vitamin D can also be fulfilled by some foods and supplements. Foods like fortified milk, egg yolk, cheese, cereals, and oily fish are rich in Vitamin D. It is very much recommended that a pregnant woman must fulfill the need of Vitamin D in body either by getting enough exposure to the sunlight or by eating Vitamin D rich foods. However, sunlight (UV-B) is a primary and effective form to fulfill the requirement of Vitamin D. This is why many experts recommend getting an exposure of sunlight for at least 15-20 minutes daily.

By Ron Wayne - January 11, 2011

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