Vitamins for children: vitamins for newborns

Vitamins for children: vitamins for newborns

I. Introduction: Basics of vitamin support for infants

The first year of the life of a newborn is a period of intensive growth and development. The need for nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, is extremely high. Ideally, breast milk or adapted milk mixture provides the baby with everything necessary. However, in some cases, additional intake of vitamins can be recommended by a pediatrician. Consider the main vitamins necessary for the newborn, the sources of their receipt, indications and contraindications for additional use, as well as possible side effects. The use of vitamin preparations in newborns is a serious decision, which should be made exclusively on the basis of a consultation with a doctor. Self -medication is unacceptable and can lead to negative consequences for the health of the child.

II. Vitamin D: solar vitamin for strong bones

Vitamin D plays a key role in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation of healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, a disease characterized by bone deformation, growth and development delay.

• Sources of vitamin D:

  • Sunlight: The main source of vitamin D is the synthesis in the skin under the influence of UVB ultraviolet rays. However, the effectiveness of the synthesis depends on many factors: the time of year, geographical latitude, time of day, cloudiness, skin color and use of sunscreen. In regions with insufficient sunny days, especially in the winter, the synthesis of vitamin D may be insufficient.
  • Food products: Vitamin D is contained in some foods such as fatty fish (salmon, herring, mackerel), egg yolk, liver. However, the concentration of vitamin D in these products is relatively low, and it is almost impossible only to obtain vitamin D only from food.
  • Vitamin additives: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the most effective form of vitamin D for newborns. Vitamin additives with vitamin D are produced in the form of drops, which facilitates their dosing and reception.

• Indications for taking vitamin D:

  • Breast-feeding: Breast milk contains a relatively low amount of vitamin D. Therefore, most babies who are on breastfeeding are recommended for additional intake of vitamin D. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all babies on breastfeeding or receiving less than 1 liter of adapted milk mixture that containing a sufficient amount of vitamin D, give 400 IU (international ITs (international units) vitamin D per day.
  • Lack of sunlight: In regions with a limited amount of sunny days, additional intake of vitamin D is especially important.
  • Dark skin: People with dark skin synthesize less vitamin D under the influence of sunlight.
  • Premature children: Premature children have an increased need for vitamin D due to insufficient vitamin reserves accumulated during pregnancy.
  • Search violations: Some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and celiac disease, may violate the absorption of vitamin D.

• Contraindications to the reception of vitamin D:

  • Hypercalcemia: Increased blood calcium.
  • Hypervitaminosis D: An excess of vitamin D in the body.
  • Increased sensitivity to vitamin D.
  • Some kidney diseases.

• Side effects of vitamin D:

  • Overdose of vitamin D: It can lead to hypercalcemia, which manifests itself in the form of nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, irritability and dehydration. In severe cases, hypercalcemia can lead to damage to the kidneys and cardiovascular system.
  • Allergic reactions: Rarely, but allergic reactions to the components of vitamin additives are possible.

• Vitamin D dosage: The dosage of vitamin D should be determined by the doctor based on the individual needs of the child. Usually, a preventive dose for babies is 400 IU per day.

III. Vitamin K: blood coagulation vitamin

Vitamin K plays an important role in blood coagulation. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding, including hemorrhagic disease of newborns, a dangerous state, which can lead to serious complications and even death.

• Sources of vitamin K:

  • Maternal milk: Contains a relatively low amount of vitamin K.
  • Intestinal microflora: Vitamin K is synthesized by bacteria living in the intestines. However, in newborns, intestinal microflora has not yet been formed, so the synthesis of vitamin K is insufficient.
  • Vitamin additives: Vitamin K1 (phyllokhinon) is a synthetic form of vitamin K used in vitamin additives.

• Indications for taking vitamin K:

  • Prevention of hemorrhagic disease of newborns: All newborns are recommended by the introduction of vitamin K immediately after birth. Usually, vitamin K is administered intramuscularly. In some countries, vitamin K can be administered orally, but this method is considered less effective.
  • Search violations: Some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, may disrupt the absorption of vitamin K.
  • Reception of antibiotics: Long -term antibiotics can suppress the growth of intestinal microflora, which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of vitamin K.

• Contraindications to the reception of vitamin K:

  • Increased sensitivity to vitamin K.

• Side effects of vitamin K:

  • Local reactions: At the place of injection of vitamin K, slight redness or swelling may occur.
  • Allergic reactions: Rarely, but allergic reactions to the components of vitamin additives are possible.

• Dosage of vitamin K: The dosage of vitamin K is determined by the doctor. Usually, 1 mg of vitamin K is injected with newborn.

IV. Vitamin A: Vitamin growth and vision

Vitamin A is necessary for normal growth and development, maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as for good vision.

• Sources of vitamin A:

  • Maternal milk: Contains a sufficient amount of vitamin A, especially colostrum.
  • Animal products: Liver, egg yolk, butter, oily fish.
  • Plant products: Vegetables and fruits containing beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in the body (carrots, pumpkin, spinach, broccoli).
  • Adapted milk mixtures: Enriched with vitamin A.
  • Vitamin additives: Vitamin A is contained in polyvitamin complexes for children.

• Indications for the reception of vitamin A:

  • Vitamin A deficiency: It is rare in newborns, breastfeeding or receiving adapted milk mixtures. Vitamin A deficiency can appear in the form of dry skin, visual impairment in the dark, frequent infections.
  • Premature children: Premature children can have an increased need for vitamin A.
  • Search violations: Some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, may violate the absorption of vitamin A.

• Contraindications to the reception of vitamin A:

  • Hypervitaminosis A: Excess of vitamin A in the body.
  • Increased sensitivity to vitamin A.
  • Liver diseases.

• Side effects of vitamin A:

  • Overdose of vitamin A: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, peeling of the skin, increased liver and spleen. In severe cases, an overdose of vitamin A can lead to damage to the liver and nervous system.
  • Allergic reactions: Rarely, but allergic reactions to the components of vitamin additives are possible.

• Vitamin A dosage: The dosage of vitamin A should be determined by the doctor based on the individual needs of the child.

V. Vitamin C: immunity vitamin

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is necessary to maintain immunity, protect the cells from damage by free radicals, as well as for collagen synthesis, an important component of connective tissue.

• Sources of vitamin C:

  • Maternal milk: It contains a sufficient amount of vitamin C, provided that the mother receives enough vitamin C from food.
  • Adapted milk mixtures: Enriched with vitamin C.
  • Fruits and vegetables: Citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, bell pepper, broccoli, spinach.
  • Vitamin additives: Vitamin C is contained in multivitamin complexes for children.

• Indications for taking vitamin C:

  • Vitamin C deficiency: It is rare in newborns, breastfeeding or receiving adapted milk mixtures. Vitamin C deficiency can manifest itself in the form of bleeding of gums, slow healing of wounds, frequent infections.
  • Premature birth: Premature children may have an increased need for vitamin C.
  • Stress situations: During an illness or postoperative period, the need for vitamin C may increase.

• Contraindications to the reception of vitamin C:

  • Increased sensitivity to vitamin C.
  • Some kidney diseases.

• Side effects of vitamin C:

  • Diarrhea: High doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea.
  • Nausea: In rare cases, vitamin C can cause nausea.
  • Allergic reactions: Rarely, but allergic reactions to the components of vitamin additives are possible.

• Vitamin C dosage: The dosage of vitamin C should be determined by the doctor based on the individual needs of the child.

VI. B vitamins B: Vitamins for the nervous system and metabolism

B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism, functioning of the nervous system and hematopoiesis.

• The main vitamins of group B necessary for the newborn:

  • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): It is necessary for energy exchange and functioning of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): It is necessary for growth and development, energy metabolism and maintenance of the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): It is necessary for energy exchange and functioning of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): It is necessary for energy exchange and synthesis of hormones.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is necessary for the exchange of amino acids and the functioning of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): It is necessary for energy metabolism and synthesis of fatty acids.
  • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): It is necessary for hematopoiesis and development of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for hematopoiesis and functioning of the nervous system.

• Sources of B vitamins B:

  • Maternal milk: Contains B vitamins, provided that the mother receives enough vitamins with food.
  • Adapted milk mixtures: Enriched with vitamins of group B.
  • Animal products: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products.
  • Plant products: Grain products, legumes, vegetables, fruits.
  • Vitamin additives: B vitamins are contained in multivitamin complexes for children.

• Indications for taking B vitamins:

  • B vitamins deficiency: It is rare in newborns, breastfeeding or receiving adapted milk mixtures. The deficiency of group B vitamins can manifest itself in the form of various symptoms, such as irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, skin rashes, anemia.
  • Premature birth: Premature children may have an increased need for B vitamins B.
  • Search violations: Some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, may violate the absorption of group B. vitamins.
  • Vegetarian or vegan diet of mother: The mothers who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet may have a deficiency of vitamin B12, which can lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12 in a child.

• Contraindications to the reception of B vitamins B:

  • Increased sensitivity to group B.

• Side effects of B vitamins B:

  • Allergic reactions: Rarely, but allergic reactions to the components of vitamin additives are possible.
  • Diarrhea: High doses of some vitamins of group B can cause diarrhea.

• Dosage of B vitamins B: The dosage of group B vitamins should be determined by the doctor based on the individual needs of the child.

VII. Other vitamins and minerals important for newborns

In addition to vitamins A, D, K, C and group B, newborns also need other vitamins and minerals, such as:

• Vitamin E: Antioxidant, protects the cells from damage by free radicals.
• Iron: It is necessary for hematopoiesis and transfer of oxygen.
• Zinc: It is necessary for immunity, growth and development.
• Calcium: It is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth.
• Phosphorus: It is necessary for the formation of bones and teeth.
• Iodine: It is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland.

Most newborns receive a sufficient amount of these vitamins and minerals from breast milk or adapted milk mixture. However, in some cases, the additional reception of these vitamins and minerals can be recommended by a pediatrician.

VIII. Polyvitamin complexes for newborns

Polyvitamin complexes contain several vitamins and minerals in one drug. They can be convenient for children who need additional use of several vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to remember that polyvitamin complexes should not replace good nutrition. Before taking the polyvitamin complex, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

IX. The risks of an overdose of vitamins

An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous for newborns. Some vitamins, such as vitamins A and D, can accumulate in the body and cause toxic effects with prolonged use in high doses. Therefore, it is important to strictly observe the dosage of vitamins recommended by the doctor. Never give the child vitamins in large doses than recommended.

X. The role of breastfeeding in providing vitamins

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide a newborn with all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Breast milk contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals in an optimal ratio and in an easily digestible form. In addition, breast milk contains antibodies and other immune factors that help protect the baby from infections. Mother breastfeeding should monitor their diet and consume enough vitamins and minerals. In some cases, mothers can be recommended to take vitamin additives.

XI. The value of enriched milk mixtures

Adapted milk mixtures are enriched with vitamins and minerals to comply with the needs of newborns. They are a good alternative to breastfeeding, when breastfeeding is impossible. When choosing an adapted milk mixture, it is necessary to pay attention to its composition and choose a mixture corresponding to the age of the child.

XII. Vitamin additives for vegetarian and vegan mothers

Mothers adhering to a vegetarian or vegan diet may experience a shortage of some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron and zinc. In this case, they need to take vitamin additives to ensure the sufficient intake of these nutrients into the baby’s body through breast milk.

XIII. The importance of consulting with a pediatrician

Before taking any vitamin additives for a newborn, you need to consult a pediatrician. The doctor will evaluate the state of health of the child, his need for vitamins and minerals, and determine the optimal dosage of vitamin additives. Self -medication is unacceptable and can lead to negative consequences for the health of the child.

XIV. Alternative approaches to providing vitamins

In addition to vitamin additives, there are alternative approaches to providing a newborn with vitamins and minerals. These include:

• Mother’s nutrition enrichment: Breastfeeding mothers can enrich their food with foods, rich vitamins and minerals.
• Body introduction: After 6 months, you can begin to introduce complementary foods, products rich in vitamins and minerals.

XV. Review of the main vitamin preparations for newborns

On the market there are many vitamin preparations for newborns. When choosing a vitamin preparation, it is necessary to pay attention to its composition, dosage and manufacturer. It is important to choose drugs designed specifically for newborns and having appropriate quality certificates. Before buying a vitamin preparation, you need to consult a doctor.

XVI. The role of genetic factors in the assimilation of vitamins

Genetic factors can affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Some people have genetic options that make it difficult to assimilate certain vitamins. In this case, they may require a higher dose of vitamins or taking special forms of vitamins.

XVII. Environmental impact on the need for vitamins

The environment can also affect the need for vitamins. For example, children living in polluted areas may need more vitamin C to protect cells from damage to free radicals.

XVIII. Vitamins and immunity of a newborn

Vitamins play an important role in maintaining the immunity of the newborn. Vitamins A, C, D and E are necessary for the normal function of the immune system. The deficiency of these vitamins can weaken the immunity and increase the risk of infectious diseases.

XIX. Vitamins and development of the nervous system of the newborn

B vitamins are necessary for the normal development of the nervous system of the newborn. B vitamins deficiency can lead to developmental delay, behavioral disorders and other neurological problems.

XX. Vitamins and vision of the newborn

Vitamin A is necessary for normal vision of the newborn. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision of vision in the dark and other vision problems.

XXI. Vitamins and skin health of a newborn

Vitamins A, C and E are necessary for the health of the skin of a newborn. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to dry skin, rashes and other skin problems.

XXII. Vitamins and growth of a newborn

Vitamins D, A and B vitamins are necessary for the normal growth of the newborn. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to growth retardation.

XXIII. Vitamins and development of the bones of the newborn

Vitamins D, K, Calcium and phosphorus are necessary for the normal development of the bones of the newborn. The deficiency of these vitamins and minerals can lead to rickets and other problems with bones.

XXIV. The effect of antibiotics on the absorption of vitamins

Long -term antibiotic intake can suppress the growth of intestinal microflora, which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of vitamin K and some vitamins of group B. In this case, additional intake of these vitamins may be required.

XXV. Interaction of vitamins with drugs

Some vitamins can interact with drugs. For example, vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor about all the vitamin additives that the child takes.

XXVI. Vitamins and premature children

Premature children have an increased need for vitamins and minerals. They may need a higher dose of vitamin additives than full -term children.

XXVII. Vitamins and children with special needs

Children with special needs, such as children with cystic fibrosis or celiac disease, may have violations of absorption of vitamins and minerals. They may require additional intake of vitamin additives.

XXVIII. Laboratory research to assess vitamin status

Laboratory studies, such as a blood test for vitamins and minerals, can be carried out to assess the vitamin status of a child. The results of these studies will help the doctor determine whether the child needs an additional administration of vitamin additives.

XXIX. Storage rules for vitamin preparations

Vitamin preparations must be stored in a dry, cool place, protected from light and inaccessible to children. It is important to monitor the expiration date of vitamin preparations and not use drugs with an expired shelf life.

XXX. New studies in the field of vitamins for newborns

In the field of vitamins for newborns, new studies are constantly conducted. These studies help to better understand the role of vitamins in the development of the child and develop new recommendations for their use. It is important to monitor new research and consult a doctor about the most modern recommendations.