Vitamin C is needed for immune system health and is a source of antioxidants. It is also a water-soluble vitamin, which means that your infant's body does not store the vitamin and needs a consistent supply. Infants require more vitamin C than older children, so it is important to understand how much your baby needs and how to make sure he is getting enough.
Amount
From birth to six months of age, your baby needs 40 mg of vitamin C a day, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. That need increases to 50 mg a day from seven to 12 months of age. From one to three years old, your child only needs 15 mg of vitamin C a day, and 25 mg a day from four to eight years old.
Sources
For the first few months of your baby's life, she only needs breast milk or infant formula, both of which will provide her with the vitamin C she needs daily. When she starts eating solid foods at around four to six months of age, vitamin C sources will include fortified cereal, strawberries and broccoli. Citrus fruits are also sources of vitamin C, but their acidity may give your baby a diaper rash.
Considerations
Although your baby requires more vitamin C than older children, he shouldn't need any supplements unless he has chronic health problems, was premature or had a low birth weight. If you are breastfeeding and follow a restricted diet, it may affect your baby's intake of vitamin C. If you are unsure whether your infant is getting enough vitamin C from his diet, talk to his doctor.
Recommendations
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, there is no maximum safe amount of vitamin C established for children 12 months old and younger. Signs of too much vitamin C include nausea and diarrhea. Call your baby's doctor if you suspect that your child is somehow receiving too much vitamin C from her diet and supplements.
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