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20.10.2008 | 5:55:59 pm | Posted by admin By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist
The new American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)’ recommendation, that vitamin D intake for infants and children be doubled, has undoubtedly sent parents scrambling for more information. The AAP went on to explain that new required daily amount of 400 IU may require supplementation, particularly for breastfed babies, as that amount would be difficult for babies and children to obtain from the diet.
 Vitamin D not only builds strong bones and teeth, but new evidence is finding that ample vitamin D intake during childhood can help prevent a range of adult diseases from osteoporosis to immune system deficiencies. Also known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D can be made from exposure to sunlight. However, babies and children often don’t spend enough time in the sun, especially not without sun block, to help provide enough vitamin D to meet their needs. Breastfed babies are the most at risk population of infants for vitamin D deficiency.
About Vitamin D Supplements
In nature, vitamin D is found in 2 different forms, noting that vitamin D itself is actually inactive until it is metabolized into active forms. Plants metabolize D2, or ergocalciferol, with the help of UV light. The much more absorbable and bioactive form for humans is D3, or cholecalciferol. Sparing a lesson in chemistry, the difference between these two forms of the vitamin is key to choosing a vitamin D supplement. Although it is well known that D3 or ergocalciferol is the most absorbable form, some supplement manufacturers manufacture D2 because it is less expensive.
When choosing a supplement, it is important to make sure it is in the proper form- D3. Because vitamin D is fat soluble and abundant is the cells of animals and fish, if you are a vegetarian you should discus find an appropriate source of vitamin D that does not contain any animal products with your healthcare provider.
 The Best Vitamin D Supplements
To give parents a starting point if supplementation is necessary for your child, here is a list of some of the best vitamin D supplements on the market for infants and children. Please be sure to consult your pediatrician or health care practioner before giving supplements to your child.
- Carlson Baby Vitamin D Drops (gluten free)
- Country Life Maxi Baby Care (gluten free and also provides other vitamins and minerals)
- D-vi-sol
- Rainbow Light Sunny Gummy Vitamin D (for older children)
- World Organic Corp Liquid Vitamin D
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