The NHS advice states that it is a good idea to start giving
your baby vitamin drops of vitamins A, C and D once she is over six months old.
However, if you are feeding your baby on infant formula, you don't need to start
giving her vitamin drops until she is taking less than 500ml of formula a day
because infant formula already contains added vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin A is good for: helping the normal structure and
function of the skin and mucous membranes (e.g. the lining of the digestive
system and lungs). It is also required for normal growth and development to
occur and for normal vision and it aids our immune system.
Vitamin C is needed for: the normal structure and function of connective
tissue in skin, cartilage and bone as it is involved in the production of collagen.
It plays an important role in healing process. It is also involved in the normal
structure and function of blood vessels and neurological function. Vitamin C
also contributes to the absorption of iron.
Vitamin D’s role is: to control the amount of calcium absorbed
by the intestine. It is also essential for the absorption of phosphorus and
for normal bone mineralization and structure. It helps to prevent conditions
such as rickets and osteomalacia.
Vitamin drops are available to buy from most NHS child health
clinics and are not very expensive. However, if you receive Income Support or
an income-based Job Seekers Allowance, you can get vitamin drops for free through
the Government's Healthy Start scheme. Go to www.healthystart.nhs.uk
for more information or alternatively, ask your local Health Visitor.
A
Not all babies require vitamin
supplements. Rather ensure your baby eats a healthy and varied diet as described
in our other FAQS. Try not to use vitamin drops to compensate for a poor diet.
Exposing infants to fruits and vegetables at a young age helps to develop healthy
eating patterns later in life.
