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Nutrition
: Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Today in North America, the following standards regarding vitamin
supplements are generally accepted for normal full-term babies:
- Exclusively breastfed babies may need to take a vitamin
D supplement (depending on where they live) beginning in the
first two to four weeks of life. They generally do not need
additional vitamin supplements if their mothers are eating
a varied and well-balanced diet.
- Formula-fed babies do not need any vitamin supplementation.
Only medically-approved, commercial iron-fortified formulas
are appropriate, as they contain all the vitamins (including
Vitamin D) and nutrients necessary for healthy growth. Homemade
formulas do not contain either sufficient vitamins
nor nutrients for a baby's needs.
- Fluoride drops may be recommended for breast or formula-fed
babies, depending on the child's age and the fluoride content
of drinking water in the area. When given regularly at a young
age, fluoride has been shown to significantly reduce dental
cavities. Your municipality's water authority will be able
to tell you the fluoride content of your local water. Consult
your doctor or dentist to find out whether your child should
have fluoride drops, at what age they should be administered,
and in what quantity.
Generally, older children don't need vitamin supplements as long
as they're eating a varied diet that includes enough food from
each of the major food groups. A healthy, well-balanced diet will
usually provide all of the vitamins and minerals necessary for
normal growth and development.
A small percentage of children may have multiple food allergies,
a metabolic disorder, or some other condition which requires a
restricted diet. Children in these special circumstances may require
supplements to make up for vitamins or minerals which are lacking
in their diets. These supplements should be taken only in the
recommended doses.
It's not a good idea to give your baby or youngster any additional
vitamin or mineral supplements unless they're recommended by the
child's doctor. Contrary to popular belief, excess vitamins or
minerals in your child's system will not boost his or her health;
in fact, they can be toxic. Herbal supplements or preparations
are also strongly discouraged, as they aren't regulated, and -
though they claim to be "natural" - often contain small
amounts of drugs which can be harmful to your child. The best
bet for ensuring your child's good nutrition is to offer an age-appropriate,
well-balanced diet, and to consult your pediatrician before giving
supplements of any kind.
Other Nutrition Topics:
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The information provided in this site is
designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to
replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is
it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If
you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always
consult a physician.
© Autograph Communications Inc.,
All rights reserved
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