Question
How much calcium should a 14-month-old baby take daily?
Answer
At just over a year old, it’s a bit early to supplement calcium for the baby. Generally speaking, it’s more appropriate to start calcium supplementation when the baby reaches two years old. Moreover, not all babies require calcium supplements. If the baby doesn’t have a calcium deficiency, then no matter how much calcium you supplement, it won’t make a difference since the body cannot eliminate it. If the baby doesn’t show symptoms of calcium deficiency like cramps, there’s no need to intentionally supplement calcium. Try to feed breast milk as much as possible, as breast milk provides the most comprehensive nutrition. Additionally, make sure to take the baby out in the sun more often, as sunlight can enhance the conversion of vitamin D, which in turn can improve calcium absorption.