Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper muscle and heart function. It is particularly important for children, as they have an increased need for this vitamin during their growing years.
One of the main sources of vitamin D is sunlight. When our skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces a precursor to vitamin D, which is then converted into vitamin D in the kidneys. Vitamin D is also found in some foods.
Newborns have a higher need for vitamin D than adults, as they require sufficient amounts of this vitamin for proper bone and teeth formation. Breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for newborns, but it contains less vitamin D. Therefore, it is recommended that all newborns receive vitamin D supplementation for the first 12 months of their lives, regardless of whether they are breastfed or formula-fed. The prophylaxis can be continued in the second year of life during the winter months.
Vitamin D deficiency can have serious consequences, particularly for children. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to growth retardation and, in severe cases, rickets. Rickets is a rare but serious condition that is characterized by deformities of the skeleton, weakened immune system, and easy fracturability.
Vitamin D supplementation should begin on day 6-8 of life and continue for the first 12 months. This supplementation will ensure that newborns receive adequate amounts of vitamin D for proper bone and teeth formation, and to prevent the risk of deficiency-related complications.
Ressource:
https://www.dge.de/wissenschaft/referenzwerte/vitamin-d/?L=0