In exclusively breastfed infants, which nutrient is routinely supplemented to prevent deficiency in early life?

• A. Vitamin D.
• B. Iron.
• C. Vitamin C.
• D. Calcium.

Answer: (A)

Vitamin D is needed for bone health, and breast milk typically provides very little of it. In early life, infants rely on adequate vitamin D to support calcium and phosphorus absorption for proper bone mineralization. Because sun exposure varies and breast milk’s vitamin D content is often insufficient, a daily supplement is recommended for exclusively breastfed infants. The usual approach is about 400 IU per day starting soon after birth and continuing until the infant consumes enough vitamin D from formula or fortified foods to meet needs. Iron, vitamin C, and calcium aren’t routinely given as universal early-life supplements in healthy term infants, though iron becomes a consideration later if breastfeeding continues without iron-rich foods.