A recent study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, delves into the adherence of Canadian mothers to vitamin D supplementation guidelines for breastfed infants and young children, shedding light on patterns of compliance and sociodemographic factors influencing supplementation practices.
In Canada, dietary guidelines recommend a daily intake of 400 IU (10 µg) of vitamin D for breastfed newborns and young children to compensate for the low vitamin D content in breast milk and limited dietary sources. While certain foods, like infant formula and cow milk, are fortified with vitamin D, children aged one to three years may not receive adequate amounts, making supplementation crucial.
Study Overview:
The study aimed to assess adherence to vitamin D supplementation guidelines among breastfed infants and children and identify sociodemographic factors influencing compliance. Researchers analyzed data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) spanning 2015–16 and 2017–18, focusing on maternal experiences related to breastfeeding and vitamin D supplementation.
Key Findings:
Adherence Rates: Approximately 87% of participants reported providing vitamin D supplements to their breastfed infants aged 12 months or younger, with 83% administering them daily or almost every day.
Frequency of Supplementation: Most mothers (83%) ensured daily or near-daily supplementation, while 12% provided supplements one to two times weekly, and 4.30% did so less frequently.
Sociodemographic Factors: Mothers who ceased breastfeeding within six months, had lower education and income levels, were recent immigrants, or had higher pre-pregnancy BMI showed lower adherence rates.
Regional Disparities: Western provinces exhibited higher odds of adherence to vitamin D supplementation guidelines.
Continued Supplementation: Among infants breastfed beyond 12 months, 58% continued to receive daily or near-daily vitamin D supplements.
Implications:
While a majority of breastfed infants receive vitamin D supplementation, approximately 27% of mothers do not adhere to guidelines, with adherence declining after 12 months.
Targeted interventions may be necessary to improve compliance, particularly among mothers with lower socioeconomic status or recent immigrants.
Despite challenges, the study highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to promote vitamin D supplementation during infancy, as it remains crucial for optimal child health and development.
In conclusion, the study underscores the need for continued education and support for Canadian mothers to ensure consistent adherence to vitamin D supplementation guidelines, ultimately contributing to the well-being of breastfed infants and young children across the country.
