Vitamin D for your baby: when, how much and in what form

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. In babies it is especially important because the skeleton grows at an enormous pace during the first year.

A small baby gets vitamin D mainly from two sources: sunlight on the skin and food. In autumn and winter, as well as in breastfed babies, these sources are often not enough, which is why paediatricians in Bulgaria recommend a supplement.

The general recommendation is to start in the first days after birth, once the paediatrician has examined the baby. The usual dose for babies is 400 international units daily, but the exact dose and duration are determined by your paediatrician for the specific case.

It is important not to combine two vitamin D supplements at the same time, because the doses add up. If the baby is on formula, tell the paediatrician: most formulas already contain vitamin D and the dosage is recalculated.

For babies the most convenient form is drops: easy to dose, tasteless and taken without a problem directly into the mouth or on a spoon. Look for a product made specifically for babies, with a clearly marked dose per drop.

Store the bottle according to the leaflet, usually away from light and heat, and follow the after-opening period, which is often shorter than the overall shelf life.

For premature babies, if you suspect an overdose or if you forget doses often, talk to your paediatrician. If you are not sure how to read the label of a specific product, ask me in the chat: I answer personally and free of charge.