Vitamin D and Childhood Diabetes

A new study reported by WebMD finds that infants who receive adequate levels of Vitamin D have an estimated 30% less chance of developing Type 1 Diabetes. This was not a clinical trial but rather a compilation of data from other studies. Since Vitamin D is produced by the body when sunlight hits the skin, it was found that children in colder climates were more likely to develop diabetes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants receive 200 IU of Vitamin D every day up through adolescence in order to prevent rickets, a disease characterized by weak bones and poor bone development. This daily recommendation may also help to prevent type 1 diabetes based on the study referenced above. If an infant eats at least 16.9 ounces of formula a day, the daily recommended amount of Vitamin D is met. Thereafter, children receive enough vitamin D when cow’s milk is introduced, after 12 months.

However, there is some controversy on whether mothers who exclusively breastfeed should supplement their babies diet with daily vitamin D supplements. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a Vitamin D supplement for breastfed babies, many breastfeeding advocates contend that breastmilk contains all of the nutrients a baby needs and if provided adequate sunlight, a breastfed baby does not require a vitamin D supplement. Mom can increase her Vitamin D stores in breastmilk by adding Vitamin D rich foods such as salmon into her diet or by increasing her exposure to sunlight. I have not supplemented either of my girls and have breast fed both exclusively (no formula). Both are healthy and strong! However I also live in the south where sunlight is abundant. I think that with regard to vitamin D supplementation, it should be approached on a case by case basis. If you feel that supplementation is warranted for your baby, you can supplement using cod liver oil (1mL per 10 pounds of body weight).

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