Recommended daily intake of essential vitamins for children 7-11 months

For children aged 7 to 11 months, the recommended daily intake of essential vitamins is as follows:

• Vitamin A: 250 to 300 Retinol Equivalents (RE) – Vitamin A is crucial for healthy growth and development, particularly for vision, immune function, and skin health. Adequate intake helps prevent deficiencies that can lead to vision problems and increased susceptibility to infections. Infants can obtain vitamin A from sources like pureed carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin B₁ (Thiamine): 0.3 to 0.5 mg – Thiamine is essential for energy metabolism and the proper functioning of the nervous system. It supports cognitive development and overall energy levels in growing infants. Good dietary sources for this age group include whole grains, meat, and fortified baby cereals.
• Vitamin B₂ (Riboflavin): 0.4 to 0.5 mg – Riboflavin plays a key role in energy production and the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It also supports healthy skin and vision. Infants can receive riboflavin from dairy products, eggs, and leafy green vegetables.
• Vitamin B₃ (Niacin): 4.9 to 6 mg NE (Niacin Equivalents) – Niacin is important for energy production and digestive health. It also supports the function of the nervous system and can help in maintaining healthy skin. Sources of niacin for infants include meat, fish, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin B₅ (Pantothenic Acid): 3 mg – This vitamin is vital for synthesizing coenzyme A, essential in the metabolic process of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It supports growth and proper physiological functions. Children can obtain pantothenic acid from sources such as meat, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Vitamin B₆ (Pyridoxine): 0.4 to 0.5 mg – Vitamin B₆ is crucial for brain development and the production of neurotransmitters. It aids in protein metabolism and the synthesis of hemoglobin. Infants can get their B₆ from sources like chicken, fish, potatoes, and fortified grains.
• Vitamin B₇ (Biotin): Approximately 5 mcg – Biotin is important for fat and carbohydrate metabolism and supports the health of skin, hair, and nails. While deficiencies are rare, infants can obtain biotin from sources such as egg yolks and nuts.
• Vitamin B₉ (Folate): 90 to 150 mcg – Folate is vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and overall growth. It plays a significant role in brain development and helps prevent anemia. Good dietary sources for infants include dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin B₁₂ (Cobalamin): 0.9 to 1.5 mcg – Vitamin B₁₂ is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system. It is crucial during rapid growth periods in infants. Sources include animal products such as meat, dairy, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): 25 to 30 mg – Vitamin C supports the immune system, enhances iron absorption, and is essential for the growth and repair of tissues. It also aids in collagen production for healthy skin and connective tissues. Infants can obtain vitamin C from fruits and vegetables, such as mashed or pureed oranges, strawberries, and sweet potatoes.
• Vitamin D: 10 mcg – Vitamin D is important for bone health as it enhances calcium absorption and supports overall skeletal development. Given that dietary sources can be limited, infants are often supplemented with vitamin D, especially if they are breastfed. Sources include fortified baby formulas and sunlight exposure.
• Vitamin E: 5 to 6 mg α-TE (alpha-tocopherol equivalents) – Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage and supporting immune function. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and eyes. Babies can obtain vitamin E from sources such as vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy greens.
• Vitamin K: 10 to 30 mcg – Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. It helps prevent bleeding disorders in infants and supports proper bone development. Dietary sources include leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, and vegetable oils; however, newborns often receive a vitamin K shot at birth to prevent K deficiency until they start consuming solid foods.

This balanced intake of vitamins is crucial for healthy growth and development during this important stage of infancy.