The recommended daily intake for some of the dietary minerals for children 7-11 months

The recommended daily intake for some of the dietary minerals for children 7-11 months

Important!

The information provided below serves as a very general guide to help understand the dietary mineral requirements for infants.

For children aged 7-11 months, it is essential to ensure they receive all necessary dietary minerals for optimal growth and development. Breastfed babies obtain these minerals from their mother’s milk, while those formula-fed get them from the artificial formula. However, to confirm the adequacy of their mineral intake, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or a nutritionist. They can assess the child’s diet and provide personalized guidance to ensure they are receiving all the necessary minerals for healthy development. A balanced diet is crucial during this critical period of growth.

Recommended Daily Intake of Dietary Minerals for Children Aged 7-11 Months

During the period of 7 to 11 months, infants are undergoing rapid growth and development, which requires careful attention to their nutritional needs. As they transition to solid foods alongside breast milk or formula, ensuring adequate intake of essential minerals is crucial for supporting their physical and cognitive development, as well as overall health. Below are the recommended daily intake levels for key dietary minerals for children in this age group:

  • Potassium: 700 mg
    • Potassium is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. It is also important for heart health. Adequate potassium intake supports a healthy nervous system and promotes proper growth. Sources of potassium suitable for this age group include mashed bananas, cooked sweet potatoes, pureed avocados, and green beans.
  • Calcium: 310 mg
    • Calcium is critical for developing strong bones and teeth during this rapid growth phase. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling. Good sources of calcium for infants include fortified infant cereals, dairy products (if introduced), and pureed leafy greens.
  • Phosphorus: 170 mg
    • Phosphorus works closely with calcium to build and maintain healthy bones. It is also vital for energy production and the formation of DNA and cell membranes. Foods rich in phosphorus such as meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products are appropriate for infants when introduced.
  • Magnesium: 80 mg
    • Magnesium is key for bone health, energy production, and muscle function. It also plays a role in regulating blood pressure and supporting the nervous system. Sources of magnesium that can be included in an infant’s diet are whole grains, legumes, avocados, and nuts (ground or as nut butters).
  • Iron: 10 mg
    • Iron is crucial for the development of healthy red blood cells and is important for cognitive development. A deficiency in iron can lead to anemia and developmental delays. Sources of iron for infants include iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, legumes, and leafy greens.
  • Zinc: 3 mg
    • Zinc supports immune function, promotes proper growth and development, and helps in the healing of wounds. It also plays a role in the synthesis of proteins and DNA. Sources of zinc suitable for this age group include pureed meats, dairy products, lentils, and fortified cereals.
  • Copper: 220 mcg
    • Copper is essential for iron metabolism, the formation of red blood cells, and supporting the immune system. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy bones and connective tissues. Dietary sources of copper for infants include organ meats, seafood, nuts, and whole grains.
  • Iodine: 80 – 90 mcg
    • Iodine is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones, which are essential for metabolism, growth, and development. Adequate iodine intake supports cognitive function and overall growth. High-quality sources of iodine include iodized salt, seafood, dairy products, and certain grains.
  • Selenium: 20 mcg
    • Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, and is important for immune function and thyroid health. Foods that provide selenium in an infant’s diet include fish, dairy products, eggs, and sunflower seeds (ground).
  • Fluorine: 0.4 mg
    • Fluoride contributes to the development of strong teeth and helps to prevent dental caries. However, excessive fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis, so it’s important to ensure that fluoride intake is appropriate. Infant toothpaste that contains fluoride may be introduced around this age, and drinking water in areas with fluoridation can also contribute to intake.
  • Manganese: 0.02 – 0.05 mg
    • Manganese is involved in bone formation and metabolism and has antioxidant properties that help protect cells. It is naturally present in foods and can be found in whole grains, nuts, leafy vegetables, and tea, although in very small quantities, which aligns with the dietary needs of infants.
  • Molybdenum: 10 mcg
    • Molybdenum is required in trace amounts and plays a role in various enzymatic reactions in the body, including those involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids. It can be found in legumes, grains, and nuts, although the amounts in an infant’s diet would typically be met through a varied diet.

For children aged 7 to 11 months, making sure they receive sufficient intake of these essential dietary minerals is vital to support their rapid growth, developmental milestones, and overall health. Caregivers should aim to offer a variety of foods that are rich in these nutrients, taking into account texture and safety for those new to solid foods.

Data from: 1.Tervise Arengu Instituut. toitumine@tai.ee; 2.Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPH), Table E3.1.A4. Nutritional goals for each age/sex group used in assessing adequacy of USDA Food Patterns at various calorie levels;