Most breastfed babies and babies consuming commercially produced formula receive all of the nutrition they need through their diet, but in some special circumstances, supplementation may be needed. If supplementation is required, it is usually of iron or vitamins K, D or B-12. In general, breastfed babies are more at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies than their formula-fed peers, since infant formula is typically fortified with all the nutrients a baby needs.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is typically administered via a shot immediately after birth. The purpose of this shot is to prevent brain bleeding in babies who may have a vitamin K deficiency. It is especially important for newborns who have experienced physical trauma during delivery, such as might occur during a forceps or vacuum assisted birth. Some mothers who have a natural, uncomplicated birth choose to forgo this shot and instead supplement their infant or themselves if breastfeeding. Breastfed infants can be given a dose of 200 mcg per week for five weeks following birth. Formula contains high levels of vitamin K, so formula fed infants typically do not need any additional supplementation.
Vitamin D
Babies are generally kept out of bright sunlight for fear of sunburn, but since vitamin D is produced by the skin upon exposure to sun, this could put infants at risk of a deficiency. Formula fed babies receive enough of this nutrient through their formula as long as they consume at least 33 oz per day. Breastfed babies, however, may be at risk, especially if the nursing mother is deficient in vitamin D. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all breastfed babies receive 400 IU of vitamin D daily. After age 1, milk fortified with vitamin D should provide sufficient levels of this nutrient.
Iron
Babies under the age of 6 months typically have enough iron stored in their bodies so that they don't need supplementation. After the sixth month, however, iron stores may become depleted. In the past, this has been deemed a problem for breastfed babies who don't get any iron supplementation through formula. However, the better bioavailability of iron in breast milk may make it a more reliable source than originally believed. Solid foods high in iron, such as egg yolk, sweet potato, meat and some vegetables and grains, are often able to provide sufficient iron that supplementation is not required. If you are concerned about your baby's iron levels, your doctor can perform a simple blood test to check for a potential iron deficiency.
Vitamin B-12
In most cases, a nursing mother provides enough vitamin B-12 to supply her infant with sufficient amounts. But women who are strict vegans may not get enough of this nutrient and may therefore not be able to pass it to their infant. Formula has enough vitamin B-12 that this is not an issue for formula-fed babies. Once an infant starts solids, he should be fed foods with vitamin B-12, such as meat products or fortified cereals, or given a vitamin B-12 supplement.
Member Comments