If you’re a new parent, you may have heard that babies can take calcium from your teeth. While this is technically true, it’s not something you need to worry about. Here’s why.
Do babies take calcium from your teeth?
No, babies do not take calcium from your teeth. Calcium is essential for healthy bones and teeth, and it is found in many foods, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and nuts. While you need calcium for strong bones and teeth, too much calcium can actually lead to weak bones.
How much calcium do babies need?
Babies need calcium for strong bones and teeth. They get calcium from breast milk, formula, and other foods. Starting at 6 months, you can give your baby small amounts of pasteurized whole milk. You can also give your baby foods that have calcium, like mashed peas or potatoes, soft cheeses, and well-cooked fish.
Why do babies need calcium?
Babies need calcium for strong bones and teeth. Calcium is found in foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt and in some dark green leafy vegetables. Your baby will get calcium from breast milk or from formula made with powdered milk. If you feed your baby cow’s milk, it should be whole milk until your baby is 2 years old.
What are the best sources of calcium for babies?
Calcium is vital for the development of strong bones and teeth. It is also important for proper muscle function and nervous system development. Breast milk is the best source of calcium for babies, but if you are formula feeding, you will need to choose a formula that is fortified with calcium. You can also give your baby foods that are rich in calcium, such as cooked spinach, tofu, yogurt, cheese, and fortified cereals.
How can you ensure your baby gets enough calcium?
There are a few things you can do to ensure that your baby gets enough calcium:
- Breastfeed your baby. Breastmilk is rich in calcium, and breastfeeding gives your baby the best possible start in life.
- Give your baby fortified formula. If you can’t breastfeed, or if you’re supplementing with formula, look for a brand that’s fortified with calcium.
- Give your baby solid foods that are high in calcium. Once your baby starts eating solid foods (usually around 6 months old), offer them foods that are high in calcium, such as yogurt, cheese, broccoli, and kale.
- Make sure your baby gets enough vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, so it’s important to make sure your baby is getting enough of both nutrients. You can give your baby a daily vitamin D supplement, or you can expose them to sunlight (with supervision) for about 15 minutes per day.
What are the signs of calcium deficiency in babies?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your baby is not getting enough calcium. They include:
-Lethargy or fatigue
-Muscle cramps
- psychiatric problems
- skeletal abnormalities
What are the consequences of calcium deficiency in babies?
Not getting enough calcium can lead to problems such as Weak Bones (Osteoporosis), High Blood Pressure, Kidney Stones, and Tooth Decay.
How can you prevent calcium deficiency in babies?
There are several things you can do to prevent calcium deficiency in babies, including:
-Make sure you eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium-rich foods, such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and leafy green vegetables.
-If you are breastfeeding, make sure you are taking a calcium supplement.
-If you formula feed your baby, use a calcium-fortified formula.
-Talk to your doctor about whether your baby needs a calcium supplement.
