How do babies get calcium

Infant calcium supplement is a concern of many parents, the following are some methods and precautions about infant calcium supplement:
Dietary calcium supplement
Breast milk or formula: for 0-6 months of infants, breast milk is the best source of nutrition, although the calcium content of breast milk is relatively stable, but the calcium and phosphorus ratio is suitable, which is conducive to the absorption of calcium by infants. Formula is also a good source of calcium, and parents can choose the right stage of formula according to the baby's age and physical condition. In general, the calcium content per 100 ml of formula milk is about 50-60 mg.
Complementary foods: When the baby adds complementary foods after 6 months, some calcium-rich foods can be gradually introduced. Such as dairy products, soy products, fish, shrimp and so on. For example, yogurt is rich in calcium and probiotics, which help babies digest and absorb calcium; Tofu is rich in calcium and vegetable protein, which is suitable for babies.
Calcium supplement
In general, if the baby can consume enough breast milk or formula, and the growth and development is normal, in 0-12 months usually do not need additional calcium supplements. However, if the baby is at risk of calcium deficiency, such as premature infants, low birth weight infants, twins or multiple pregnancies, or if the doctor has assessed the presence of calcium deficiency, calcium supplementation may be required under the guidance of a doctor.
Calcium selection: The common calcium agents are calcium carbonate, calcium gluconate, calcium lactate and so on. Calcium carbonate is high in calcium, but may cause constipation; Calcium gluconate taste good, water solubility is also good, but the calcium content is relatively low; Calcium lactate is less irritating and better absorbed. Parents can choose the appropriate calcium according to the doctor's advice and the actual situation of the baby.
Supplement method: The dosage of calcium supplement should be determined according to the age of the baby and the degree of calcium deficiency. In general, the dosage of calcium supplements for infants is around 100-300 mg per day. At the same time, calcium is best taken between meals to reduce the impact of food on calcium absorption.
Promote calcium absorption
Vitamin D: Vitamin D can promote the absorption and utilization of calcium in the intestine and is very important for the bone development of babies. In general, babies can begin to take vitamin D supplements about 2 weeks after birth, and the daily supplement dose is 400-800 international units. Vitamin D drops can be selected and placed directly into the baby's mouth.
Sun exposure: Proper outdoor activities and sun exposure can help the baby's skin synthesize vitamin D and promote calcium absorption. It is generally recommended that when the sun is not strong, such as 9-10 in the morning or 4-5 in the afternoon, let the baby be exposed to the sun for about 15-30 minutes each time. But be careful to avoid direct sunlight on the baby's eyes and skin to avoid sunburn.
When giving babies calcium supplements, parents should pay close attention to the baby's physical condition and reaction. If the baby has constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite and other abnormal conditions, should stop calcium supplements in time, and consult a doctor's opinion. At the same time, calcium supplementation should not be excessive, so as not to cause problems such as hypercalcemia.