What is the role of vitamin D for babies?

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body, which are essential for the development of strong bones and teeth in babies. It facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the diet, ensuring that these vital minerals are available to the body for growth and development. A deficiency in vitamin D during infancy can lead to rickets, a condition characterized by weak or softened bones, which can have long-lasting effects on a child's skeletal structure. Therefore, adequate vitamin D is critical for establishing a solid foundation for a baby's overall health and development regarding bone mineralization. The importance of this vitamin is often highlighted in guidance for infant nutrition, emphasizing its role in promoting optimal skeletal health from a young age.