How long should newborns take cod liver oil?

Oct 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
Cod liver oil provides vitamin A and vitamin D, which can help prevent rickets and also has therapeutic effects. However, symptoms after taking cod liver oil should be monitored. If diarrhea occurs, cod liver oil should not be taken. If no diarrhea or other adverse symptoms appear, it is generally safe to continue administration beyond the age of two. Additionally, for premature infants, it is recommended to continue cod liver oil supplementation until age three or even longer.

Infants should take cod liver oil until they are over two years old, but the specific duration should be determined according to the individual infant's condition under a doctor's guidance.

Cod liver oil provides infants with vitamins A and D, helping to prevent rickets and offering some therapeutic effect for the condition. However, it is important to monitor the infant's response after taking cod liver oil. If symptoms such as diarrhea occur, administration should be stopped. If no adverse effects like diarrhea or other discomforts appear, it is generally safe to continue until the child is over two years old. Additionally, for premature infants, it is usually recommended to continue cod liver oil until age three or even longer.

It is advised to start giving cod liver oil to newborns 15 days after birth. Daily administration can be done by puncturing the capsule with a needle and dripping the oil directly into the infant’s mouth. However, it should be noted that not every newborn requires cod liver oil supplementation. Excessive intake may lead to toxicity; therefore, it is recommended to supplement cod liver oil in appropriate amounts only under medical supervision to avoid adverse effects.

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