When Layah had her 2 month check-up, the doctor asked me what I was doing to make sure she had enough vitamin D. I gave her a blank stare, because I had no idea that my breast milk wasn’t producing everything that she needed. That was not something I had been told with Darah, and it wasn’t something I had read online. I probably would have been very dismissive of her question to me except that I had found her to be very pro-breastfeeding in every conversation we had. Since I knew she fully supported and recommended breastfeeding, I decided to take her question seriously and do a little bit of research on the topic.
And what I found is that research does show that breastmilk doesn’t have the levels of vitamin D that a baby needs for healthy growth. Many women make sure that their babies get a little bit of sunlight each day to up the vitamin D levels. But it has been really hot all summer and spending time outside sweating and swatting mosquitos isn’t exactly high on my to-do list. So I knew I needed another option.
A product was recommended to me that is sold by a major formula company and is readily available in major retail stores. I bought it, but I didn’t feel excited about it. I wanted to find something from a smaller business that was more eco-friendly and more natural.
What I found was something better than I even imagined! I discovered the company Nordic Naturals, and began using the Baby’s DHA product, which does contain vitamin D3, but also contains fish oil, which has been shown to improve cognitive development in children. Unlike vitamin D, which the body is able to produce, essential fatty acids must be obtained from diet or supplementation. EPA and DHA are the two most important essential fatty acids, and they play a role in immune and nervous system support, as well as normal brain and eye function.
Baby’s DHA is a liquid product made by Nordic Naturals for babies 5-35 pounds, and it retails for $15.95. It can easily be added to formula or food, or simply be administered alone. It is made from arctic cod liver oil. And it has added vitamin D3, which is what I was originally seeking. The company has a variety of products in liquid, soft gel, gummy form and even powder, so that you can help your child get DHA and EPA.
In addition to having an extensive line of EFA products, Nordic Naturals also carries some great multi-vitamins for children. Darah has been enjoying the Nordic Berries, which retail for $22.95 for 120 gummies. To be perfectly honest with you, Tim and I have also been enjoying the Nordic Berries. They are SO yummy! In addition to being tasty little sweet and sour treats, I appreciate that these gummies have no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, as well. Children from age 2 through 102 can enjoy these. They contain 100% of the daily value for most essential nutrients.
Overall, I’m really impressed with the quality of products provided by this company, and I would highly recommend them. We’ll be back for more Nordic Berries and Baby’s DHA as soon as we run out!
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Disclosure: I received complimentary products for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are strictly my own.