Many parents choose to add cod liver oil to their children’s diet to promote their healthy growth. Cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D, which are particularly important for infants and young children. The sufficiency of vitamin A directly affects the normal development of a baby’s skin and eyesight, while vitamin D is related to calcium absorption and bone strength, with deficiencies possibly leading to rickets. Therefore, timely supplementation of vitamins A and D is essential for infants, and cod liver oil becomes an efficient way to do so.
It is generally recommended to introduce cod liver oil to infants around two weeks after birth, starting with a daily dose of one drop. If the baby’s digestion is good, the dosage can gradually increase to one capsule per day, continuing until the child is around two years old. It is important to note that while vitamins A and D are beneficial, excessive intake can lead to toxicity, so it should be strictly controlled within safe limits: vitamin D should not exceed 20 to 25 micrograms per day, and vitamin A should not exceed 2000 micrograms. It is widely believed that after the age of three, as outdoor activities increase and a diverse diet forms, the regular need for cod liver oil supplementation will decrease accordingly.
As for when to give cod liver oil to infants, considering the rapid growth needs of babies, it can be started shortly after birth, with specific dosage adjustments based on the baby’s age and individual differences. For children over three years old, since daily diet and outdoor activities can better meet their vitamin needs, additional cod liver oil supplementation is no longer necessary.
Choosing the right cod liver oil product is also crucial. With a variety of options on the market, “Yikexin” is more preferred by babies for its taste, while “Beterling” has a slightly fishy taste. Regardless of the brand chosen, daily intake should not exceed the recommended value. Moreover, allowing the baby to get some sun exposure after taking the supplements can help with vitamin D absorption.
In conclusion, a well-planned supplementation of cod liver oil, combined with a balanced diet and moderate sunlight exposure, will effectively support the healthy growth of babies. Additionally, parents should also differentiate between fish oil and cod liver oil when making purchases, as the former has a more complex composition and is not suitable as a daily supplement for infants and young children.
