Best Way To Give Baby Vitamin D Drops
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for your baby's growth and development. It helps in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are important for strong bones and teeth. Breast milk and formula milk provide some amount of Vitamin D to the baby, but it may not be enough. Hence, pediatricians often recommend giving Vitamin D drops to infants to fulfill the daily requirement of this nutrient. In this article, we will discuss the best way to give baby Vitamin D drops.
Choose the Right Vitamin D Drops
Firstly, it is essential to choose the right Vitamin D drops for your baby. Look for drops that are specifically formulated for infants and contain the recommended daily dose of Vitamin D (typically 400 IU). Consult your pediatrician before selecting any brand of Vitamin D drops.
Timing is Crucial
The timing of administering Vitamin D drops is crucial. It is recommended to give the drops to your baby within the first few days of birth. However, if you have missed the initial days, start giving the drops as soon as possible. Give the drops at the same time every day to establish a routine.
Administering Vitamin D Drops
Administering Vitamin D drops to your baby may seem like a daunting task, but it is relatively simple. Place the recommended number of drops (usually one drop) on a clean surface, such as a spoon. Then, gently insert the dropper into your baby's mouth and squeeze the recommended number of drops into their mouth. To avoid choking, make sure your baby is in an upright position and swallows the drops before putting them down.
Make it a Part of a Routine
It is important to make giving Vitamin D drops a part of your baby's daily routine. You can give the drops during a diaper change or feeding time. By making it an everyday practice, you can ensure that your baby gets the daily dose of Vitamin D without fail.
Store the Drops Correctly
Storing Vitamin D drops correctly is important to maintain their potency. Keep the drops in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Refrigerating the drops is not necessary, but it can increase their shelf life. Make sure to check the expiration date on the bottle before giving the drops to your baby.
Conclusion
Giving your baby Vitamin D drops is a simple and effective way to ensure they get the daily dose of this essential nutrient. Choosing the right drops, administering them correctly, and making it a part of your baby's routine can ensure that they get the required amount of Vitamin D for their growth and development. Consult your pediatrician if you have any doubts or concerns about giving Vitamin D drops to your baby.