Vitamin D supplementation for premature babies

Posted by Master, Resident Doctor Dang Thi Ngoan - Department of Pediatrics - Neonatology - Vinmec Ha Long International Hospital

Vitamin D is important for the bone health of infants and young children. For premature babies, there is an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, thereby increasing the risk of rickets. Many studies have evaluated the efficacy and safety of early and high-dose vitamin D supplementation in premature infants to support bone development, the immune system, and early lung development.

Vitamin D has the function of enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphate in the intestinal tract, strengthening the immune system and helping the body fight infections or chronic diseases. While most vitamins and minerals can be obtained through food and drink every day, vitamin D is the type that is found in very small amounts in food, formula or breast milk.
Vitamin D needs to be supplemented for children, especially premature babies right after birth, even though they are breastfed. Vitamin D deficiency in children can lead to lung disease or rickets, heart disease, osteoporosis, flu, cancer, multiple sclerosis. ..
The effect of vitamin D on babies is undeniable, vitamin D supplementation for premature babies in the right way, in the right dose, will help the brain work better, the metabolism takes place strongly. stronger and maintain a healthy weight.

Dosages of vitamin D supplements for premature infants and newborns are as follows:
For full-term infants, 400 IU per day is recommended for the first year. For premature babies: Many studies have shown that early and high-dose vitamin D supplementation is more effective than the usual recommended dose for term infants. According to experts at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (USA), increasing the dose of vitamin D supplements from the current recommended level of 400 UI (international units) to 800 UI daily improves bone density in adults. premature babies.

Premature babies can be supplemented with vitamin D immediately after learning to eat by mouth. However, tolerability of enteral nutrition should be assessed. When children are fully or partially nourished by the gastrointestinal tract: No vomiting, regurgitation, normal milk digestion, no abdominal distension, normal bowel movements, and weight gain are all the time when vitamin D supplements can be added for children. premature babies.
Vitamin D supplementation for premature babies is important and necessary. However, parents should consult a doctor before giving vitamin D supplements to their children.
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