Question

What type of calcium supplement should infants take for optimal absorption? Generally, what methods do infants use to supplement calcium? My child has been breastfed since birth and has not received any additional calcium supplements other than breast milk. No treatment has been administered. Now, we have discovered a calcium deficiency and wish to start supplementing.

Answer

Calcium is an essential mineral for the body, and it’s particularly important to supplement with calcium during infancy. Here are some suggestions:

  1. For infants, breast milk is the best source of calcium, followed by formula milk, and then fresh milk.
  2. While supplementing with calcium, it’s necessary to consume vitamin D as well, to promote the absorption and utilization of calcium in the intestines. It’s recommended to take vitamin D and calcium supplements separately.
  3. During summer when outdoor activities are more frequent, infants over one year old can temporarily discontinue vitamin D supplementation to avoid excessive intake leading to poisoning.
  4. Since infants have a lower acidity in their stomachs, it’s advisable to choose organic calcium sources such as citrate calcium or lactate calcium. After the age of two to three, when stomach acid concentration gradually increases, higher-calcium inorganic sources such as calcium carbonate can be chosen.