Is breast milk a good source of vitamin D?

Prepare for the New Zealand State Nursing Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get prepared to excel in your test!

Breast milk is generally considered to be low in vitamin D, which is why it is often stated that it is not a good source of this particular nutrient. The primary source of vitamin D for infants is through sunlight exposure and dietary supplements. While breast milk contains many vital nutrients and antibodies essential for infant growth and development, its vitamin D concentration is typically not sufficient to meet an infant's needs, especially if the mother has low vitamin D levels.

This is why health organizations often recommend that breastfeeding infants receive a vitamin D supplement, especially if they are exclusively breastfed. Factors such as geographical location, season, and individual variations in sun exposure can influence maternal vitamin D levels, but generally, the vitamin D content of breast milk does not reliably meet infants' requirements.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy