All About Essential Vitamin D for Your Little One

You probably know how important vitamin D is for adults, but do you know how important it is for your little one? Here’s a hint: incredibly.

Babies and children grow super fast. In fact, babies double their birth weight in the first four to six months. Vitamin D is vital for ensuring they grow and develop properly. Its main function is to aid in the absorption of calcium, which helps build strong, healthy bones and teeth. If a little one is deficient in vitamin D, it can lead to brittle bones, stunted development and even rickets — a childhood disorder where their bones are prone to fractures.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends newborns through 12-month-olds receive 400 IU of vitamin D per day. Babies from 12 to 24 months should get 600 IU per day.(1) 

But here’s the thing: While breastmilk is the optimal food for your little one, it doesn’t contain enough vitamin D for them.

So How Can They Get Enough Vitamin D?

1. Sunlight
   When skin is exposed to sunlight, it creates its own vitamin D. However, because babies and young children have tender, delicate skin, their direct sun exposure should be limited. Babies under six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight altogether, and those older than six months should always wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
   
2. Food
   While many vitamins are naturally found in foods, vitamin D is unfortunately not one of them. It’s mainly in fatty fish and fish oils — which aren’t the most kid-friendly foods. You can also find it added to certain yogurts and baby formulas. These are great choices once your little one starts solid foods.
   
3. Supplements
   The most popular option for getting your child vitamin D is through supplements. These are often found in the form of a vitamin D dropper or a multivitamin. Another option is Biostime's Daily Probiotics with Vitamin D. It’s a synbiotic blend for ages newborn to six years, and it’s designed to support digestion and immune function and help build strong bones.* Plus, it’s really easy to give your little one — just mix it into any liquid or soft food at room temperature. 

Vitamin D is essential to helping your child grow up strong and healthy. Luckily, it’s something you can easily ensure they get. If you have any specific questions, please reach out to your little one's doctor.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease