Alam mo ba? Kahit exclusive breastfeeding ka, your baby might still not be getting enough Vitamin D. Surprising, ‘di ba? Breastmilk is liquid gold—full of nutrients and antibodies—but when it comes to Vitamin D, kulang pa rin. And since this vitamin is crucial for bone health, immunity, and growth, supplementation becomes a must for many families.
Why Vitamin D Matters So Much for Babies
Think of Vitamin D as your baby’s “bone buddy.” It helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus—building blocks for strong, healthy bones. Without it, babies are at risk of rickets, a condition that causes weak or bent bones.
Pero hindi lang ‘yun. Research also shows Vitamin D supports immune defense and muscle function—important for fighting infections and hitting those developmental milestones like crawling and walking.
📖 Study spotlight: A 2022 trial in Taiwan found that giving breastfed babies 400 IU of Vitamin D daily significantly improved their Vitamin D levels by 4 months old, compared to babies who didn’t get supplements. (Journal of Bone and Mineral Research)
Breastmilk Alone May Not Be Enough
Here’s the catch: Vitamin D levels in breastmilk depend on mom’s own Vitamin D status—and studies show many moms worldwide, including in sunny countries like the Philippines, are still low.
👉 The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and CDC both recommend that all breastfed babies get 400 IU of Vitamin D daily starting from the first few days of life.
Even local data tells us we need to pay attention: A DOST study revealed that 1 in 10 Filipino kids aged 6–12 are Vitamin D deficient, and many more are insufficient.
How to Give Vitamin D to Your Baby
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Infant drops: The easiest and most common form. Usually just 1 drop a day.
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Start early: As soon as you’re home from the hospital, unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
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Be consistent: It’s a small step with a big impact on bone health.
💬 As the CDC reminds parents:
“All breastfed and partially breastfed infants should receive 400 International Units per day of vitamin D beginning in the first few days of life.”
What About Moms?
Some studies show that if a breastfeeding mom takes a high-dose supplement (around 6,000 IU daily), enough Vitamin D can pass through breastmilk to cover her baby’s needs.
But here’s the caveat: this only works with medical supervision. For most moms, it’s safer to stick with baby drops + mom’s daily vitamins for a balanced approach.
Can’t We Just Rely on Sunlight?
Yes and no. Our bodies naturally make Vitamin D from sunlight—but here’s the reality:
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Babies can’t be exposed to too much direct sun because of sensitive skin.
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Urban living, air pollution, and indoor lifestyles limit safe sun exposure.
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Rainy season? Kulang ang UVB rays.
That’s why health experts recommend supplementation on top of safe sun time.
When to See Your Doctor
Check with your pediatrician if:
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Your baby’s skull feels too soft, or legs look bent.
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They seem delayed in standing/walking milestones.
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They get sick often, or you suspect deficiency.
Sometimes, your doctor may order a blood test for Vitamin D—but most of the time, supplementation is already enough to prevent problems.
The Bottom Line
Your breastmilk gives your baby so much—but Vitamin D needs extra help. Just one drop a day of Vitamin D supplement can make all the difference for stronger bones, a sturdier immune system, and healthy growth.
Think of it this way: breastfeeding provides the love and foundation, and Vitamin D is the little boost that protects your baby’s future.
