Newborn and Infant Nutrition

Curious to see what a “naturopathic neonatal nutrition plan” includes?


There are 2 things that all babies need to be supplemented with from birth:

• Vitamin D
  
• Probiotics

Why, you might ask? Even when breastmilk is so nutritionally complete?



Though breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for an infant, there are a few key things that neonates need in addition to their standard diet. Breastmilk alone does not provide infants with an adequate amount of vitamin D, even if the mother has sufficient blood levels. In fact, Health Canada recommends all babies receive vitamin D from birth.


Probiotics are also important to help with the development of baby’s gut and in order for them to digest milk properly. As many mamas are given antibiotics during a c-section or a vaginal birth, it is important to help introduce healthy bacteria back for optimal intestinal health! This can help to prevent thrush and bad bacteria from causing issues later on.


Remember, only pediatric “baby doses” of these nutrients are needed, and it is important that you are using high quality brands.


It’s best to get help from a professional. Talk to your naturopath at Dalhousie Health and Wellness to ensure your little ones are getting all the nutrition that they need!