Question
Is hair loss in children due to a calcium deficiency? When should cod liver oil be supplemented and what dosage should be given? When should calcium supplementation begin? How should calcium be supplemented? What kind of assistance is needed, especially with dosage? Does the baby need to supplement calcium at this time? How should it be supplemented? Do we need to supplement daily…?
Answer
Hair loss in children is not necessarily due to a calcium deficiency; it could be caused by excessive hair rubbing while sleeping. Generally, supplementation of cod liver oil can be stopped after the child turns one year old. Cod liver oil contains vitamins A and D, which aid in calcium absorption and promote bone fiber formation. Vitamin D deficiency may lead to rickets. The timing of supplementation is determined by the child’s physical growth and development. Long-term use of cod liver oil with a vitamin A to D ratio lower than 3 to 4:1 may lead to vitamin A overdose poisoning. Specific dosage instructions should be referred to in the product manual or as prescribed by a doctor. Exposing the child to more sunlight also helps prevent rickets.