Supplement Recommendations for a 11-Month-Old Baby Deficient in Calcium and Zinc

Question

An 11-month-old baby has not yet grown teeth, cannot stand or walk alone, and has been diagnosed with deficiencies in calcium and zinc. Currently breastfed, the baby has just started on formula milk but does not like eating solid foods and is allergic to eggs, seafood, mites, and artificial flavors. How should calcium and zinc be supplemented?

Answer

Firstly, calcium and zinc should not be supplemented simultaneously. It is recommended to supplement zinc first, followed by calcium. Liquid forms of zinc and calcium supplements can help improve absorption rates. After supplementing with zinc, it can promote the growth of cells including bone cells, which is the foundation for calcium deposition. Therefore, supplementing zinc first can more effectively promote the absorption, deposition, and utilization of calcium. Additionally, calcium absorption is related to vitamins A and D, while zinc directly affects the metabolism of vitamin A and assists vitamin D in promoting calcium absorption. Therefore, supplementing zinc first can achieve better results in calcium supplementation.

Question

The 11-month-old baby has not yet grown teeth, cannot stand or walk alone, and has been found to be deficient in calcium and zinc. Currently being breastfed, the baby has just started on formula milk but is not fond of eating complementary foods and is allergic to eggs, seafood, mites, and artificial flavors. What should be done to supplement calcium and zinc?

Answer

Firstly, it’s important to note that calcium and zinc should not be supplemented at the same time. It’s advisable to start with zinc supplementation before moving on to calcium. Liquid formulations of zinc and calcium supplements are beneficial for enhancing absorption. Following zinc supplementation, it can stimulate cell growth, including that of bone cells—crucial for calcium deposition. Thus, prioritizing zinc supplementation can more effectively facilitate the absorption, deposition, and utilization of calcium. Moreover, calcium absorption is linked to vitamins A and D, while zinc plays a direct role in vitamin A metabolism and aids vitamin D in facilitating calcium absorption. Consequently, zinc supplementation first can optimize the process of calcium supplementation.