Question
The baby, who is over 70 days old, has recently been refusing to drink milk. There are sunken areas on both sides of the forehead, and there is a ring of thin hair. The doctor said during the physical examination that the baby is deficient in calcium, and supplementation is currently underway. However, for how long should supplementation continue? How can you tell if there is still a calcium deficiency? Is not drinking milk a sign of zinc deficiency? Is it appropriate for a 2-month-old baby to undergo a trace element test?
Answer
The baby’s sunken forehead and sparse hair may be symptoms of a calcium deficiency. It is recommended to supplement calcium through diet, such as consuming more eggs, meats, and milk (these foods are not suitable for a baby of 2 months old), or by taking specific calcium supplements. Calcium supplementation requires a gradual process and will not show immediate effects. Personally, I suggest waiting until the baby is older before conducting a detailed examination. Additionally, whether the baby is breastfed or formula-fed will also affect the method and need for calcium supplementation.