Does my baby need to take vitamins?
Baby's Health & Wellness
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iStock/hilllanderMany pediatricians prescribe vitamin drops containing vitamin D for young babies to compensate for breast milk lacking the nutrient. However, many breastfeeding moms aren't comfortable supplementing their babies with anything beyond breast milk. Check out what these moms and experts suggest.
"Babies don't need a multivitamin supplement the way many adults take a multivitamin supplement.
The exception to this is vitamin D for breastfed babies. Breastfed babies do need vitamin D supplementation, since most formula-fed babies are getting adequate amounts from the vitamin D in their formula. The American Association of Pediatrics does recommend vitamin D supplementation for exclusively breastfed babies. These needs change after six months. Usually babies start solid foods by this...
"Babies don't need a multivitamin supplement the way many adults take a multivitamin supplement.
The exception to this is vitamin D for breastfed babies. Breastfed babies do need vitamin D supplementation, since most formula-fed babies are getting adequate amounts from the vitamin D in their formula. The American Association of Pediatrics does recommend vitamin D supplementation for exclusively breastfed babies. These needs change after six months. Usually babies start solid foods by this time and supplementation is not needed. Consult your pediatrician for guidance regarding your specific situation." -- Kameelah Phillips, MD, OB/GYN, AdvantageCare Physicians, New York, NY
"The doctor prescribed vitamin drops at my daughter's first visit when she was a week old. Vitamin D doesn't go through breast milk so they need extra, especially if you live somewhere that gets very little sunshine."
"My pediatrician and lactation consultant both recommended that I supplement myself rather than my baby. I've taken 2000 IUs of vitamin D daily since he was born."
"I don't want anything in my baby's system other than my milk in the first six months. I don't see the need to force a baby to take terrible-tasting vitamins."
"It might depend on where you live. My doctor said my baby was fine because we live in a warm climate, and he would get indirect sunlight now and then. This is enough vitamin D."
The advice on CafeMom aims to educate, inform, and provide a range of solutions to the issues moms care about. It is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
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