Patient's question:
A 3-month-old baby usually takes Longmu Zhuanggu Granules to supplement calcium, but the doctor said that besides the calcium deficiency, the reason might be poor digestion. How can I help the baby better digest calcium? Additionally, should calcium supplementation be long-term or moderate? Is it better to take it for several months a year or seasonally?Doctor's answer:
Calcium supplementation not only requires attention to calcium digestion but also to its absorption. There are several factors that can enhance calcium absorption:1. The digestion of vitamin D can improve calcium absorption.
2. Spend more time in the sun, at least two hours daily. Engage in outdoor activities more often.
3. Certain plants, such as those high in oxalates, can reduce calcium absorption when combined with calcium. Dietary fiber can also affect calcium absorption. Poor fat digestion may interfere with calcium absorption. It is important to avoid taking such foods with calcium supplements.
4. Consume more calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods, such as fish, shrimp, crabs, seaweed, dairy products, animal liver, beans, black sesame seeds, etc.
Since your child is still young and has a relatively limited diet, calcium and vitamin D should be supplemented through calcium supplements. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the guidance of a doctor. Conduct thorough tests to determine the extent of your child’s calcium deficiency, and then decide the duration and dosage of supplementation. Excessive calcium intake can also increase the risk of kidney stones, lead to milk-alkali syndrome, and interfere with the absorption of other minerals.
After your child is six months old, you can start providing them with fortified foods. At this point, it is recommended to adjust their diet (based on points 3 and 4) to supplement calcium.