The vitamin present at low levels in breast milk is -

Correct option is C

Ans. (c) Vitamin D
Explanation:
Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for infants, but some vitamins are present at low levels. Vitamin D is the most deficient vitamin in human breast milk.
Why is Vitamin D low in breast milk?
· Breast milk naturally contains very little vitamin D (~20-50 IU per liter), which is insufficient for infant needs.
· Vitamin D synthesis primarily occurs in the skin through sunlight exposure, and very little is transferred through milk.
· Breastfed infants are at risk of vitamin D deficiency, leading to rickets (soft, weak bones).
Recommended Supplementation:
· The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) and WHO recommend 400 IU/day of vitamin D supplementation for exclusively breastfed infants to prevent rickets.
Why are the other options incorrect?
1. Vitamin A → (Not Deficient in Breast Milk) ✅
· Breast milk contains adequate Vitamin A (important for vision and immunity).
· Colostrum is rich in Vitamin A, giving it a slightly yellowish color.
2. Vitamin B6 → (Not Deficient in Breast Milk) ✅
· Levels depend on maternal intake, but generally adequate in well-nourished mothers.
3. Vitamin B12 → (Only Low in Vegan Mothers) ✅/❌
· Usually present in sufficient amounts unless the mother is vegetarian/vegan, as B12 comes from animal sources.