Impact of Multivitamins on Asthma and Allergies in Infants: What Parents Should Know

Q: Impact of Multivitamins on Asthma and Allergies in Infants: What Parents Should Know

Hello： 1. Iron supplements and vitamins may be considered for discontinuation after correcting deficiencies in children over six months of age. 2. As long as milk is consumed in adequate amounts, it provides sufficient nutrition and vitamin content. 3. Allergi

Infants who take vitamins at six months of age have a 10% higher rate of developing asthma?

My baby was born at 32 weeks and 3 days, weighing 1990 grams, making him a preterm infant.
The hospital prescribed a multivitamin and iron supplement for him, but news reports suggest that adding multiple vitamins to formula may enhance its nutritional value.
A recent report from a pediatric journal in the U.S.
indicates that infants and toddlers who took multivitamins by the age of three had a 10% incidence of asthma and 4.9% developed food allergies.
Furthermore, infants who took multivitamins before six months of age had a 7% higher rate of food allergies compared to those who did not.
I am unsure if this will affect my baby.
He is now 10 months old, with a corrected age of over 8 months, and is still taking a multivitamin, iron supplement, and a probiotic (a half packet daily from an external source).
Should I continue giving these to my baby? How can I monitor for allergies? Currently, he is drinking Nestlé hydrolyzed protein HA2 formula, his stool is dark green, he has a slight redness on his bottom, and his weight is 10.5 kg, height is 75 cm, and head circumference is 45.5 cm.

Xiao Yi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/02

Dr. Zhang Peixin reply Pediatrics

Hello: 1.
Iron supplements and vitamins may be considered for discontinuation after correcting deficiencies in children over six months of age.
2.
As long as milk is consumed in adequate amounts, it provides sufficient nutrition and vitamin content.
3.
Allergic reactions can be observed through the appearance of rashes on the skin or symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.
4.
Currently, there is no literature suggesting that probiotics are unsuitable for very young infants.
Sincerely, Dr.
Pei-Hsin Chang, Pediatrics.

Reply Date: 2004/08/02

More Info

The question regarding the impact of multivitamins on asthma and allergies in infants, particularly for a premature baby, is a significant concern for many parents. Based on the information provided, it is essential to consider both the benefits and potential risks associated with multivitamin supplementation in infants.

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that premature infants, like your baby born at 32 weeks, often have different nutritional needs compared to full-term infants. They may require additional vitamins and minerals to support their growth and development. The hospital's recommendation for multivitamins and iron supplements is likely aimed at addressing these specific needs.

However, recent studies, including those published in pediatric journals, have raised concerns about the association between multivitamin use in infants and an increased risk of asthma and allergies. The data you mentioned indicates that infants who took multivitamins before six months of age had a higher incidence of food allergies compared to those who did not. This correlation suggests that while multivitamins can be beneficial, they may also pose risks, particularly in the context of allergies and respiratory conditions like asthma.

Given that your baby is currently 10 months old and has a corrected age of over 8 months, it is crucial to evaluate whether continued supplementation is necessary. If your baby is receiving adequate nutrition from breast milk or formula, and if their growth parameters (weight, height, and head circumference) are within normal ranges, you might consider discussing with your pediatrician the possibility of reducing or discontinuing the multivitamin and iron supplements.
Regarding the observation of potential allergies, parents should look for signs such as skin rashes, hives, gastrointestinal symptoms (like vomiting or diarrhea), or respiratory issues (such as wheezing or coughing). The redness around the diaper area could be a sign of irritation or a mild allergic reaction, but it is essential to monitor for other symptoms as well.

In terms of the nutritional value of formula milk, it is designed to provide all the necessary nutrients for infants, and adding multivitamins may not significantly enhance its nutritional profile. Most infant formulas are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, making additional supplementation unnecessary in many cases.

Lastly, regarding the use of probiotics, they are generally considered safe for infants and may provide benefits for gut health, especially in those with a history of gastrointestinal issues or allergies. However, it is always best to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new supplements.

In summary, while multivitamins can be beneficial for some infants, particularly those with specific nutritional needs, it is essential to weigh the potential risks of increased allergy and asthma incidence. Regular consultations with your pediatrician will help ensure that your baby's nutritional needs are met without unnecessary supplementation. Monitoring for signs of allergies and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider will be crucial in managing your baby's health effectively.

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