How should infants supplement calcium?
Disease description:
My son is six months old, and I would like to supplement his calcium intake, but we are unsure which methods are effective for calcium supplementation. May I ask how infants should be supplemented with calcium?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Calcium supplementation for infants should involve regular sun exposure, breastfeeding, and the introduction of complementary foods.
1. Regular Sun Exposure: Exposing infants to sunlight is a natural way for them to obtain vitamin D, which facilitates calcium absorption.
2. Breastfeeding: Breast milk is one of the primary sources of calcium for infants and contains easily absorbable calcium and other essential nutrients.
3. Introduction of Complementary Foods: When infants begin to consume complementary foods, caregivers can choose calcium-rich foods that also provide other essential nutrients, supporting the infant's overall development.
4. Choosing Appropriate Calcium Supplements: If dietary intake cannot meet an infant's calcium requirements, a physician may recommend calcium supplements. Common calcium supplements for infants include calcium gluconate oral solution and pediatric calcium carbonate D3 granules.
5. Vitamin D Supplementation: Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption. In addition to sun exposure, it can also be obtained through diet or vitamin D supplements.
Parents should also be cautious not to over-supplement calcium during the process, as excessive calcium intake may interfere with the absorption of other nutrients or lead to problems such as kidney stones. Ensuring a diverse diet for the infant and avoiding an overreliance on high-calcium foods will help maintain adequate intake of other essential nutrients.
