Daily Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluable vitamin that has many crucial roles in the body.  It supports bone development and an array of other vital body functions. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants and children should receive 400 IU of daily vitamin D supplementation starting shortly after birth. This is true for both breastfed and formula fed infants. This recommendation is particularly important for children with darker skin, as melanin reduces the skin's ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.  For these children, consistent supplementation of 400 IU per day is advised to help meet their needs and prevent deficiencies.

Incorporating vitamin D-rich foods into your older child's diet isn't always easy but the benefits are worth the effort.  The foods that are rich in vitamin D are salmon and other fatty fish, fortified dairy products and fortified plant-based milk alternatives. Incorporating cheese, yogurt and a serving of your favorite "milk" daily is one way to make sure kids get enough vitamin D. Adding a supplement of Vitamin D 400 IU daily serves as a safety net against vitamin D deficiency.