Essential Guide for Parents
Why Are Vitamins Important for Babies Under 1 Year?
During the first year of life, babies grow faster than at any other stage. Vitamins and minerals support their bone health, brain development, immunity, and energy levels. While breast milk or infant formula provides most of what babies need, it’s helpful to know which foods and supplements support healthy growth.
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Vitamin D for Babies
Benefits: Strong bones and teeth, calcium absorption.
Sources:
- Breastfed babies: May need vitamin D drops.
- Formula-fed babies: Most formulas are fortified.
- Solid foods (6+ months): Egg yolk, salmon, fortified cereals.
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Vitamin A for Babies
Benefits: Healthy vision, skin, and immune system.
Sources:
- Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin (pureed).
- Spinach and kale (in baby purees).
- Fortified infant formula.
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Vitamin C for Babies
Benefits: Boosts immunity and helps absorb iron.
Sources:
- Mashed fruits: oranges, mango, kiwi, strawberries.
- Veggies: broccoli, bell peppers, tomatoes.
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Vitamin E for Babies
Benefits: Protects cells and supports immunity.
Sources:
- Avocado (mashed).
- Smooth nut butters (tiny amounts for allergy introduction).
- Plant oils mixed into purees.
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Vitamin K for Babies
Benefits: Helps with normal blood clotting.
Sources:
- Newborns receive a vitamin K shot at birth.
- Later sources: spinach, kale, broccoli purees.
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B Vitamins (B6, B12, Folate)
Benefits: Brain development, red blood cell production, energy support.
Sources:
- Infant formula (fortified).
- Eggs, beans, lentils, poultry, meats.
- Fortified baby cereals.
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Iron + Vitamin C Combo for Babies
Why it matters: Babies need iron for brain growth after 6 months. Vitamin C boosts absorption.
Sources:
- Iron: fortified cereals, lentils, pureed meats, egg yolk.
- Vitamin C pairing: oranges, berries, broccoli.
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Formula and Vitamin Support for Babies Under 1
Most infant formulas are fortified with vitamins and minerals your baby needs. Popular options include:
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- BEBA – available in EU: 🔗 Amazon EU
- Enfamil – available in the USA: 🔗 Amazon USA
⚠️ Always check with your pediatrician before switching formulas or starting supplements.
Final Thoughts for Parents
- Breast milk or formula = the main source of vitamins in the first year.
- Breastfed babies may need vitamin D supplements.
- From 6 months, solid foods add extra nutrition.
- Always introduce one food at a time to check for allergies.