A new mother is advised on vitamin D supplementation for her breastfed infant. What is the recommended dosage?

The recommended dosage for vitamin D supplementation in breastfed infants is 400 IU daily. This level is necessary to ensure adequate vitamin D levels for healthy bone development and to prevent rickets, particularly because breast milk may not provide sufficient vitamin D for infants.

In this scenario, while the dosage listed in the chosen answer does not match the current guidelines, it is important to underline that the appropriate response would align with the established standard of 400 IU rather than the options provided. Infants who are exclusively breastfed are at risk for vitamin D deficiency, and supplementation is essential for those infants to support their overall health and prevent deficiencies.

Understanding that the correct dosage should be reflective of the latest guidelines is crucial, as recommendations can vary. The importance of vitamin D in maintaining healthy calcium and phosphate levels, and its role in supporting immune function, especially in breastfed infants, emphasizes the necessity of proper supplementation.