A vitamin deficiency and infant’s refusal of solid foods:
Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to solid food refusal. A study of an 8-month-old who refused solid foods revealed the infant to be vitamin B12 deficient. After receiving vitamin B12 via other routes besides the mouth, the infant’s health improved and solid foods were introduced successfully. Researchers suggest refusal of solid foods could be used as an early sign of insufficient vitamin B12 levels in breastfed infants. (25)
Calcium, vitamin D, height, and weight:
Calcium and vitamin D intake as part of a healthful diet is necessary for development and is recommended for children at the current recommended daily allowances. See calcium and vitamin D section for these intake recommendations. Calcium supplements were not found to influence the growth rate or result in weight gain when taken by children (26).