AAP doubles vit D for children guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics has doubled the recommended amount of vitamin D for infants, children and adolescents. The AAP adjusted its recommendations for vitamin D issued in 2003, from 200 IU a day beginning in the first two months of life to 400 units per day of vitamin D beginning in the first few days of life.

The guidelines were revised based on new clinical trials and past recommendations that 400 IU of vitamin D per day can be safely given to children to prevent or treat rickets and may provide additional health benefits.

According to the AAP report, children one year of age and older should consume vitamin D from vitamin D-fortified milk and other fortified foods and take a supplement if needed, under guidance by a pediatrician. Babies who are exclusively and partially breastfed are particularly at risk for vitamin D deficiency and should receive a vitamin D supplement until they begin drinking at least 32 ounces of formula a day.