Which supplementation is recommended for exclusively breastfed infants older than 6 months who are drinking tap water?

For exclusively breastfed infants who are older than 6 months, fluoride supplementation is recommended, particularly for those who are drinking tap water that may not contain sufficient fluoride levels. Breast milk typically does not provide enough fluoride to meet the needs for dental health, which is critical during this stage of growth because infants begin to develop their primary teeth.

In areas where the water supply has a low concentration of fluoride, this supplementation supports the prevention of dental caries and promotes the healthy development of teeth. Fluoride is beneficial for strengthening the enamel of developing teeth and reducing the risk of cavities as the child begins to consume solid foods and experiences the dental eruption of primary teeth.

While there are other important vitamins and minerals relevant to infant nutrition, such as Vitamin D for bone health or iron for the prevention of anemia, the specific recommendation for fluoride centers around its role in dental health, making it the priority for exclusively breastfed infants at this age who are consuming tap water.