Breasfed babies need a vitamin D supplement, because vitamin D does not pass through your breastmilk very well.
Vitamin D supports a healthy immune system and promotes strong bones.
400 IU of vitamin D daily, starting soon after birth, is the standard recommendation.
Your baby may have gotten a dose or 2 in the newborn nursery.
Vitamin D for baby
Vitamin D is sold over the counter. Some brands have the entire dose in just 1 drop.
Other brands require that you give up to 1mL. Be sure to read the instructions.
High dose vitamin D for Mom
Another option is for Mom to take 6400 IU of Vitamin D daily INSTEAD of giving vitamin D to your baby.Studies have shown this high maternal dose pushes more vitamin D through the breastmilk.
Talk with your doctor if you'd like to consider this option instead of giving vitamin D to your baby.
Kay Anderson MD, IBCLC
5/23