Supplements for Breastfed Babies

 When you start introducing solid foods for around 6 months of age, breast milking is the complete source of nutrition for infants. But, some babies may need supplemental nutrients which you have to provide according to the recommendation from the doctor.

Iron for Healthy Tissues and Organs Why is iron important? 

• Iron helps make hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body.
• Iron is the need of your baby's brain development and growth.
• Premature infants who breastfeed may need iron supplements.
• Early born babies had less time to build adequate iron reserves before birth. Thats why they need an iron supplement.

Around the 4th month of age,  babies who are breastfed may require an iron supplement due to their iron stores getting low. But, talk with your health care professional before adding an iron supplement. About 4 to 6 months old infants start showing the signs of ready for solid foods. Iron rich foods are recommended as a baby’s first food, so they help as better supplement which infant needed. (AAP) recommends that if formula is used, it should be iron-fortified for the first year of infant.

Fluoride for Strong Teeth

Before you see teeth, your baby's teeth are already growing under the gumline. Fluoride, which is a mineral found naturally in water, helps to develop strong teeths. And, it also helps to prevent cavities. Somehow  sources of tap water are fluoridated, breast milk contains little fluoride. The quantity of fluoride in formula decide the water that is used to prepare it. First 6 months, healthy babies will not need  water if they are consuming enough breastmilk or formula. When babies are 6 months or older, it is recommended a fluoride supplement be discussed with your child's pediatrician or dentist to determine if it is needed.

Vitamin D for Growing Bones

• Vitamin D or calciferol  is an important vitamin. Because, when it is exposed to sunlight, our skin can make vitamin D. But, you must protect your baby's skin from sunlight with clothing or something. Infants cannot rely on the sun for their vitamin D, they may also need a vitamin D supplement.
• This vitamins helps baby use calcium from breast milk  to help bones grow and develop. Babies who do not get vitamin D may develop rickets. Rickets, which is weak bones, may cause the legs of young children to bow.
• It is recommended all breastfed babies receive at least 400IU of vitamin D daily, starting within the first few days of life. Talk with your pediatrician about supplemental vitamin D.

All infant formula in the United States are fortified with vitamin D to help babies grow. If your baby is partially formula feded or if you are tense about your baby's appetite, ask from your doctor if a vitamin D supplement is needed.