Certified Specialist in Pediatrics 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bone development and overall health in children. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of Vitamin D increases at various developmental milestones to ensure that growing children receive adequate amounts for optimal health.

At the age of 1 year, the RDA for Vitamin D increases to 600 International Units (IUs) per day. This increment is based on the understanding that as children begin to eat a more varied diet and their bodies grow and develop, their Vitamin D needs also increase. Starting from 12 months, children are usually transitioning from infant nutrition to a broader diet that includes solid foods, which may not necessarily provide sufficient Vitamin D unless fortified sources are included.

Under 1 year of age, the recommended allowance is lower because infants typically receive Vitamin D through formula or breast milk, which may be complemented by Vitamin D drops. Hence, the guidance shifts at the 1-year mark to address the nutritional requirements for active and growing toddlers. Therefore, the correct age at which the Vitamin D requirement increases to 600 IUs is indeed when children reach 1 year old.