It is believed that all the vitamins we get from food. But vitamin D is able to synthesize our body, and in sufficient quantities. This happens (photolysis reaction) under the action of the ultraviolet spectrum of solar radiation. But, unfortunately, in the conditions of a metropolis, a deficiency of this vitamin is still formed, despite even quite high-quality nutrition with a sufficient content of fish, eggs and butter. Newborns especially suffer from this, because they feed on mother's milk, and the mother’s body does not always produce the necessary elements in sufficient quantities.
That is why doctors often prescribe vitamin D for newborns, in order to avoid the appearance of rickets, spasmophilia and frequent respiratory diseases. The fact is that this vitamin takes a direct part in the formation of the musculoskeletal system and nervous system. If it is not enough, the body ceases to absorb calcium and phosphorus, respectively, the growth and strengthening of bones is suspended. At the same time, the minerals present in the body are excreted by the kidneys. So vitamin D for newborns is extremely important, because the formation of the skeleton in them is at an accelerated pace.
Of course, the baby’s body will eventually get used to living in conditions of a deficiency of these important minerals, metabolic processes will improve, but bone deformations that occurred in infancy due to insufficient absorption of calcium will remain forever. Muscle tone will also suffer, which, subsequently, will lead to sad consequences: flat feet, scoliosis, visual impairment and other troubles can develop. Recently, the American Academy of Neurology published the following conclusions: by enriching their menu with products containing vitamin D, pregnant women reduce the risk of a terrible disease such as multiple sclerosis in a future man . So do not neglect the recommendations of doctors prescribing vitamin D for newborn babies.
An overdose of this vitamin is much less common. But she is very dangerous. Symptoms of an overdose are usually similar to signs of intoxication: vomiting may occur, temperature may rise, constipation and dehydration are no less dangerous. With a constant slight excess of vitamin D, chronic intoxication usually develops, which after the first half of the baby’s life will manifest itself as a hypertensive crisis or acute renal failure. Therefore, you should not prescribe vitamin D to a newborn on their own, only a doctor can see the necessary symptoms.
In cases of overdose, the first step is to exclude the ingress of vitamin D into the body, as well as products that contain calcium. In addition, vitamins A and E, which are antagonists of vitamin D, are used as blockers. If the condition is serious, use a combination treatment aimed at eliminating calcium from the body and replenishing potassium and magnesium lost during treatment.
How to give vitamin D to infants? For prophylaxis, the standard scheme is used: a child, starting from the 21st day of life, is given daily 1 drop of an oil solution, which contains 500 IU of the active substance. Reception can be suspended during the summer in those climatic zones that are sufficiently insolated. If the baby is premature, the dose doubles, and the vitamin is usually taken for two years.
But the approach is always individual, because the child may have some kind of pathology, it happens that the mother just forgets to give vitamins on time. Therapeutic dose can only be prescribed by a doctor. Usually, it is 4 drops of a solution. And if signs of rickets have already appeared , then at least 5 drops.
In any case, vitamin D for newborns is necessary, but prevention and treatment should be agreed with the doctor.