How to supplement calcium for babies after six months?
Disease description:
The baby is six months old and has started to be introduced to solid foods. However, the mother noticed that the baby tends to sweat easily during sleep and has slight hair loss at the back of the head. She is worried whether the baby lacks calcium and wants to know how to supplement calcium for the baby.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
At around six months of age, babies are in a rapid growth and development stage, with increased calcium demands for bone and tooth development. Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption, and its deficiency may manifest as sweating,枕秃 (loss of hair at the back of the head), etc. Calcium deficiency may also cause night-time irritability and softening of the skull bones. Therefore, it is important to supplement vitamin D when supplementing calcium.
Calcium supplementation recommendations for six-month-old babies:
1. Dietary adjustments
You can introduce calcium-rich foods to your baby such as dairy products, tofu, leafy vegetables, milk, soy products, sesame seeds, soybeans, dried shrimp, mustard greens, egg yolks, seaweed, and mud loaches. Initial complementary foods should start with small amounts, gradually increasing while ensuring no allergic reactions occur. Also, avoid consuming with vegetables high in oxalic acid at the same time to prevent interference with calcium absorption.
2. Vitamin D supplementation
Supplement your baby with vitamin D drops under a doctor's guidance. The recommended dosage is generally 400 international units (IU) per day; in some cases, the dosage can be adjusted to between 400-800 IU according to medical advice. Additionally, spend 10-15 minutes outdoors with your baby in the morning or evening to utilize UV light to promote vitamin D synthesis in the body.
3. Selection of calcium supplements
If the baby has severe symptoms of calcium deficiency, calcium supplements such as calcium gluconate, compound calcium carbonate granules, or Longmu Zhaunggu Granules can be selected under a doctor's guidance. Follow the prescribed timing and dosage to avoid adverse reactions caused by excessive intake.
4. Regular check-ups and consultation with a doctor
Regularly take your baby to the hospital for health check-ups to monitor growth and development, promptly detect and address nutritional deficiencies and other issues. Before adding any supplements for your baby, be sure to consult a pediatrician first to determine the baby's specific needs and appropriate dosage.
