It also has a role in preventing cancer and autoimmune diseases (conditions in which the body is tricked into thinking your cells are not your own so it attacks them).
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus to build strong bones. Although formula is fortified with vitamin D, enough may not be consumed each day to get the total recommended dose of 400 units. Infants who drink less than a liter of formula also may need a lower dose of a vitamin D supplement.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a daily dose of 400 units of vitamin D for infants. Breast milk has only 25 units of vitamin D per liter (that’s roughly a quart or about 32 ounces). Infants who are breastfed or partially breastfed should receive a daily supplement of vitamin D starting in the first few days of life.
