#asktheexperts
What supplements should i give to my 12 month old?

Question

#asktheexperts 
What supplements should i give to my 12 month old?

Accepted Answer

For a 12-month-old baby, it’s important to focus on a balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients. However, there are a few supplements that might be recommended by your pediatrician depending on your child’s dietary intake and health status:

### Common Supplements for 12-Month-Olds:
1. **Vitamin D**: Essential for bone health and development. If your baby is not getting enough from sunlight or fortified foods, a supplement might be necessary.
2. **Iron**: Important for preventing anemia, especially if your baby is not consuming enough iron-rich foods.
3. **Vitamin B12**: Particularly important if the baby is on a vegetarian or vegan diet.
4. **Omega-3 Fatty Acids**: Beneficial for brain development, especially if the baby’s diet lacks adequate sources of DHA (like fatty fish).

### Recommended Daily Intake:
- **Vitamin D**: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 400 IU of vitamin D daily for infants.
- **Iron**: For children 7-12 months, the recommended daily intake is 11 mg.
- **Vitamin B12**: The recommended intake is 0.5 micrograms for 6-12 months old.
- **Omega-3**: Consult your pediatrician for specific recommendations as dosages can vary.

### Steps to Take:
1. **Consult a Pediatrician**: Always talk to your pediatrician before starting any supplement to ensure it is necessary and to get the correct dosage.
2. **Balanced Diet**: Focus on offering a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products.
3. **Fortified Foods**: Include foods fortified with essential nutrients like cereals, milk, and juices.

### Food Sources of Key Nutrients:
- **Iron**: Meat, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals.
- **Vitamin D**: Fortified milk, cereals, exposure to sunlight.
- **Vitamin B12**: Meat, dairy products, fortified cereals.
- **Omega-3**: Fatty fish (if appropriate), fortified foods, and supplements.

### Summary:
- **Check with a healthcare provider**: Personalized advice based on your child’s dietary needs and health.
- **Ensure a balanced diet**: The primary source of nutrients should be from a varied diet.
- **Use supplements as needed**: Only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Proper nutrition and any necessary supplementation will support your child’s growth and development effectively.

#asktheexperts What supplements should i give to my 12 month old?