Question
How do I diagnose and supplement calcium in an 18-month-old child suspected of having a calcium deficiency, showing symptoms such as stunted growth, prominent forehead, poor appetite, and slow tooth development?
Answer
Calcium deficiency in children can lead to rickets, characterized by stunted growth, prominent forehead, poor appetite, and slow tooth development. To supplement calcium, it is important to ensure that the child gets enough daily calcium intake, which typically requires adjustments based on age, gender, and physiological status. The critical growth period for children is from 0 to 3 years old, during which a deficiency in calcium can directly affect bone and dental health. According to the Chinese Nutrition Society, breastfed babies aged 0 to 3 months need about 300 milligrams of calcium per day, while formula-fed babies require approximately 400 milligrams. For babies aged 7 to 12 months, the daily requirement is between 500 and 600 milligrams, and for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years, it is between 600 and 800 milligrams. To ensure that the child gets enough calcium, parents are advised to keep track of their child’s diet and calculate their calcium intake, and consider supplementing with foods rich in calcium such as milk and dairy products, as well as other calcium-rich vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seafood. Additionally, adequate vitamin D supplementation should be considered to promote calcium absorption, but caution should be exercised to avoid excessive intake to prevent toxicity.