Ask Our Expert - Vitamin Supplements for Infants

September 07, 2008

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Specializing in feeding and nutrition.


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Ask Mary Silva Vitamin Supplements for Infants

QUESTION


Dear Ms. Silva, I have seen infant vitamin drops in the store and am wondering if I should be giving them to my eight-month-old baby. I am still nursing her in addition to her regular meals of fruits, veggies, and strained meats. Thank you. — Rabea

ANSWER	October 25, 2001


Dear Rabea, It sounds as if your baby is eating a good variety of foods in addition to breast milk. The recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for breastfed babies include an iron supplement after the age of four months; a fluoride supplement if the local water supply is not fluoridated or if bottled water or a filter system that filters out fluoride is used in the home. Furthermore, breastfed babies who are dark skinned, especially if they're exposed to little sunlight, should be given a vitamin D supplement. You can discuss these conditions with your pediatrician who can prescribe the appropriate supplement for your baby. — by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D.

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