How To Correctly Supplement Calcium For Infants And Young Children
Calcium is an essential mineral for infants and young children. It is necessary for the development of strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.
Most infants and young children get enough calcium from their diet. However, some children may need to supplement their calcium intake. This is especially true for children who are:
Premature
Low birth weight
Fed a diet that is low in calcium
Taking certain medications, such as steroids
How Much Calcium Do Infants And Young Children Need?
The recommended daily intake of calcium for infants and young children is as follows:
0-6 months: 200 mg
7-12 months: 260 mg
1-3 years: 700 mg
4-8 years: 1,000 mg
How To Supplement Calcium
There are several ways to supplement calcium for infants and young children. The best way to supplement calcium is to give your child a calcium-rich diet. Good sources of calcium include:
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale
Beans and lentils
Nuts and seeds
Fortified foods, such as cereals and juices
If your child is not getting enough calcium from their diet, you may need to give them a calcium supplement. Calcium supplements are available in a variety of forms, including:
Tablets
Chewables
Liquids
Powders
Talk to your child's doctor about which type of calcium supplement is right for your child.
How To Give Calcium Supplements
When giving your child a calcium supplement, it is important to follow the directions on the package. You should also give your child the supplement with food or milk to help them absorb the calcium.
Do not give your child more than the recommended daily dose of calcium. Too much calcium can cause side effects, such as:
Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Kidney stones
When To Call The Doctor
Call your child's doctor if you have any concerns about your child's calcium intake. Your doctor can help you determine if your child is getting enough calcium and recommend the best way to supplement calcium if necessary.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for ensuring that your infant or young child gets enough calcium:
Breastfeed your baby for as long as possible. Breast milk is a good source of calcium.
If you are not breastfeeding, formula-feed your baby with a formula that is fortified with calcium.
Introduce solid foods to your baby at around 6 months of age. Include calcium-rich foods in your baby's diet.
Encourage your child to drink plenty of milk. Milk is a good source of calcium.
Talk to your child's doctor about calcium supplements if you are concerned that your child is not getting enough calcium from their diet.
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