Are you supposed to take vitamin D while breastfeeding?

The Importance of Vitamin D During Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, one question often arises: Should I take vitamin D while breastfeeding? The answer is nuanced, reflecting both the needs of the mother and the infant.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting healthy bone development and preventing conditions such as rickets in infants. However, the natural concentration of vitamin D in breast milk is often insufficient to meet the daily requirements of exclusively breastfed infants. Research indicates that while vitamin D is a normal component of human milk, the levels produced by maternal supplementation—typically in the range of 400 to 600 IU per day—are often inadequate for the infant’s needs .
Recommendations for Maternal Supplementation
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers consider higher doses of vitamin D to ensure both their own health and that of their infants. A study led by Dr. Bruce Hollis suggests that supplementing mothers with 6,400 IU of vitamin D per day can significantly increase the vitamin D content in breast milk, providing a more effective alternative to directly supplementing infants. This approach not only supports the infant’s vitamin D levels but also helps mitigate the risk of deficiency in breastfeeding mothers, who are often at a higher risk compared to non-breastfeeding women.
Timing and Transition
The need for vitamin D supplementation is particularly critical while breastfeeding remains the sole source of nutrition for the infant. Once the child begins to consume other foods—such as yogurts, cow’s milk, and eggs—they will start to receive vitamin D from these sources, reducing the necessity for maternal supplementation.
Monitoring and Safety
While vitamin D can be safely used during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to monitor their intake, especially if they opt for higher doses. Consulting with healthcare providers can help ensure that both mother and baby are receiving adequate nutrition without risking toxicity.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding mothers should consider vitamin D supplementation, particularly at higher doses, it is vital to tailor this approach to individual health needs and dietary practices. As always, engaging with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance to navigate these important nutritional decisions.

Do newborns really need vitamin D drops?

All children need vitamin D beginning shortly after birth. Children younger than 12 months old need 400 IU of vitamin D each day. Children 12 to 24 months old need 600 IU of vitamin D each day.

Are vitamin D drops necessary for newborns?

Babies from birth to 1 year of age who are being breastfed should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D to make sure they get enough. This is whether or not you’re taking a supplement containing vitamin D yourself.

Why did they start putting vitamin D in milk?

In the 1930s, the United States began to fortify milk with vitamin D in an effort to eradicate rickets. The disease — caused by vitamin D deficiency that softens and weakens the bones — was rampant at the time among poor children, particularly in northern U.S. cities. In the early 1920s, E.V.

When did they start recommending vitamin D for breastfed babies?

November 2008
However, the American Academy of Pediatrics only began recommending infant supplementation in November 2008, whereas the Canadian recommendation has been present in some form since 1967.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘8P9nZ-nfDpHbwPAPxM61qQo__30′,’

What happens if I don’t give my breastfed baby vitamin D?

While breast milk is the best source of nutrients for babies, it likely won’t give them enough vitamin D. Too little vitamin D can cause a softening and weakening of bones called rickets. The sun is a good source of vitamin D.

Do I need to give vitamin D while breastfeeding?

Yes your baby needs supplementation with Vitamin D. You also have the option to take a high dose of Vitamin D daily (4000-6400 IU) and that will pass through your breast milk.

Do vitamin D drops make babies fussy?

Case Reports of Breastfed Infants Who Had Vitamin D Toxicity. There were also reports of toddlers that had vitamin D toxicity from over-the-counter (OTC) vitamin D overdose within the United States. They presented with symptoms of irritability, vomiting, constipation, and hypertension.

What vitamins should I avoid while breastfeeding?

AVOID dose of vitamin A above 700-800 mcg/day and vitamin B6 above 20-50 mg/day. Iodine can concentrate in breastmilk so do not take levels in excess of 100% RDA. There are no studies on the safety of high dose intra-venous (IV) vitamin drips in breastfeeding mothers.

What are signs of low vitamin D?

What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

• Muscle pain.
• Bone pain.
• Increased sensitivity to pain.
• A tingly, “pins-and-needles” sensation in the hands or feet.
• Muscle weakness in body parts near the trunk of the body, such as the upper arms or thighs.
• Waddling while walking, due to muscle weakness in the hips or legs.

Is it too late to start vitamin D drops for babies?

These should generally be given from a dropper that provides 400 IU each day from a single dropper. Begin the drops in the first week or two of life. Then, at 4 months of age (sooner if a baby is born at less than about 5 1/2 pounds), make sure the drops have both vitamin D and iron.