Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and teeth, and it's also important for pregnant women to get enough of it. But is too much of the vitamin really bad for a baby? That's a question that many pregnant women are asking these days.
Some experts believe that there is a link between excessive vitamin D intake and birth defects, while others believe that there isn't enough evidence to support this claim. So what's the verdict? Is too much vitamin D bad for a baby? Read on to find out!
What Is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a vitamin. It's actually made in the body when sunlight exposure (or diet) helps to create a chemical called "vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3 is then broken down into its different parts, including vitamin D.
How Does Vitamin D Work In The Body?
Vitamin D helps to regulate the body's calcium and phosphate levels.
It also helps to promote healthy bone growth and reduces risk of some types of cancer.
Is There A Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)?
There isn't an RDA for vitamin D, but the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that adults get 600 IU of vitamin D per day.
Pregnant women should aim for 800-1000 IU per day, and breastfeeding mothers should get 400IU/day.
Are There Any Side Effects To Taking Too Much Vitamin D?
Yes, there are potential side effects to taking too much of the vitamin.
These side effects can include: weight gain, kidney stones, and calcium deficiency.
Caution is always needed when supplementing with any type of nutrients, as it's important to check with a doctor before starting any new supplement routine.
Can Too Much Vitamin D Harm A Baby's Development?
There is a potential link between excessive vitamin D intake and birth defects, though the evidence is still not conclusive.
Some experts believe that there is a link between an insufficient amount of vitamin D during pregnancy and increased incidence of birth defects such as cleft lip or palate, heart abnormalities, seizures and low weight in newborns.
However, more research needs to be done in order to firmly support this claim.
What Can You Do If You Think Your Baby Is Getting Too Much Vitamin D From Sun Exposure Or Supplements?
If you are concerned that your baby is getting too much vitamin D from sun exposure or supplements, talk to a doctor.
There are safe ways to get the recommended amount of vitamin D without exposing your child to the sun or taking supplements.
You can also consult with a pediatrician about whether supplementation may be warranted depending on your child's specific health needs and diet.
Bottom Line
In the end, we are sure that you will have enough information to buy your trusted drops for your baby. Just make sure to consult a doctor before starting it. Also, be extra cautious if your baby has certain health conditions or comes from a family with high risk of developing them.
In case you still don’t know what to do, check out our blog for the reviews of the best vitamin d drops for infants available on the market today!
