Question
My baby is 5 and a half months old and currently takes one fish liver oil capsule per day. I’ve heard that infants need to consume 400 international units of vitamin D daily, and I’m not sure if this amount is sufficient. My baby has been exclusively breastfed and has not been given any special calcium supplements. However, recently, the baby often cries at night, sweats, and is easily startled. Could this be due to calcium deficiency?
Answer
Nighttime crying, sweating, and being easily startled in infants can be symptoms of calcium deficiency. Typically, calcium deficiency is accompanied by symptoms such as lack of appetite and irritability. It is recommended that in addition to adequate rest and diet for your child, you can supplement with vitamin AD drops, twice a day, two drops each time, while also pairing it with zinc gluconate calcium to enhance the effect of calcium supplementation. More sun exposure also helps with calcium absorption. Wishing your child a healthy growth.