Breastfeeding – Vitamin D
We need Vitamin D to help our bodies absorb calcium and phosphate which is essential for healthy bones, teeth and muscles. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bones becoming weak and soft. In the UK majority of us will get most of our vitamin D for sunlight exposure from around late March / early April to the end of September. However, it is important to get enough sunlight without risking sun damage.
The Department of Health recommends that all children aged 6 months to 5 years are given vitamin supplements containing vitamins A, C and D every day. In addition, they also recommend that breastfeed babies are given a daily vitamin D supplement from birth, whether or not you’re taking a supplement containing vitamin D yourself. For babies who have more than 500ml (about a pint) of infant formula a day shouldn’t be given vitamin supplements. This is because formula is fortified with vitamin D and other nutrients.
Your health visitor can give you advice on vitamin drops and tell you where to get them. In addition, you might be entitled to free vitamin drops if you qualify for Healthy Start. Have a look at the links below for more information:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/
http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/wp-content/dibm/2019-09/Vitamin%20D%20and%20Breastfeeding.pdf