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VITAMINS FOR MY CHILD

What vitamins are needed for my child?

Adequate intakes of micronutrients for your infant and toddler are necessary for growth and development. 

 

Key micronutrients for your child are:

  • Vitamin D

  • Vitamin A

  • Iron

  • Zinc

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D in infants is important to prevent rickets. Breastmilk does not have sufficient amounts of vitamin D. So, your child will need to get Vitamin D from other sources.

The best source is from the SUN.

Other sources are from oily fish (sardine, herring, mackerel, salmon), eggs, red meat, mushrooms, and fortified food.

A safe range of 8.5-10 mcg/day Vitamin D supplement can be given to your child with the exception of those who are taking >500ml of infant formula which is already fortified with Vitamin D.

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is important for vision, growth, and immune function. 

Food sources of Vitamin A are:

Meat, papaya, apple, kiwi, melon, carrots, pumpkin, brocolli

vitamin A furits and vegetables.jpg

IRON 

Iron is needed for growth and brain development. Children who are lacking in iron will appear pale, tired, and may perform poorly in school.

After 6 months of age, your child will need iron-containing solid foods as iron from breast milk is insufficient.

Food rich in irons are:

Beef, pork, chicken (shredded/minced), fish (bones removed), eggs, cooked beans, lentils, dark green leafy vegetables, tofu and iron-fortified infant cereal (single grain cereal ideally)

iron rich food for babies.jpg

ZINC

Zinc is vital for your child's immune system.

Food sources of zinc are:

Red meat (pork, chicken, beef)

Whole grain cereals

Beans

Avocado

Nuts are also rich in zinc BUT nuts are NOT SUITABLE for children as there is a risk of choking.

zinc food.jpg

Do you know?

The best source of Vitamin D is from the SUN!! 

So, take your child out of your house for a walk, play or just to run.

Physical activity for infants and toddlers are important too!

Do you know?

Cow's milk is a poor source of iron but high in protein. So, it should not be used as the main drink before 1 year old. 

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