What Are Vitamins For Kids

Additional Ingredients In Multivitamins For Kids

While vitamins and minerals make up the majority of a multivitamins ingredient list, there are a few other nutrients to look for that benefit many children.

Too little fibre and your child is likely to end up constipated. This is a common problem for kids who dont eat enough fruits and vegetables, which are one of the best sources of dietary fibre, along with whole grains, legumes, and nuts. If this is an issue for your child, consider adding a multivitamin that contains fibre to his daily intake.

Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily found in fish, something a lot of kids refuse to eat. If your child falls into that group, it might be a good idea to choose a multivitamin with omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health and brain development.

While it might seem like a bad idea to intentionally populate your intestines with bacteria, its necessary for your gut to be inhabited by good bacteria such as Lactobacillus. Probiotics help keep your childs digestive system regular, and they are an especially good addition to a multivitamin for a child who frequently experiences constipation or diarrhoea.

Where You Can Get Baby Vitamin Drops

Your health visitor can give you advice on vitamin drops and tell you where to get them.

You’re entitled to free vitamin drops if you qualify for Healthy Start.

The Department of Health and Social Care only recommends vitamin supplements containing vitamins A, C and D.

But some supplements you can buy contain other vitamins or ingredients. Talk to a pharmacist about which supplement would be most suitable for your child.

Having too much of some vitamins can be harmful. Keep to the dose recommended on the label, and be careful not to give your child 2 supplements at the same time.

For example, do not give them cod liver oil and vitamin drops because cod liver oil also contains vitamins A and D. One supplement on its own is enough, as long as it contains the recommended dose of vitamin D.

Best Vitamins For Children Growth Zinc

Children who want to grow taller must choose zinc mineral, which will restart the growth of your childs bones. Zinc can be found in eggs, oysters, milk, cheese, cereals, bread and red meat. You should make proper dietary plan by simply adding zinc-rich foods to your childs diet to boost his growth. Children aged 4-8 should aim at consuming around 5mg of zinc per day.

Zinc is available in a plenty of foods, such as red meat, seafood and beans.Other food sources of zinc include dairy products, oatmeal, nuts as well as fortified breakfast cereals. Add these foods to your childrens daily diet as soon as possible.

Read Also: Which Is Better Vitamin D Or D3

Best Vitamins For Children Growth Iron

Children who have a vegetarian diet often get an iron deficiency. Iron is important for producing hemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying red-colored pigment in the blood, and myoglobin, which is the oxygen-storing pigment in the muscles. Therefore, lack of iron can lead to anemia, which will be able to cause weakness, fatigue and irritability.

Iron is available in animal foods that originally contained hemoglobin including red meats, fish, and poultry. Iron-rich foods include liver, lams, nuts, sunflower seeds, beans, beef, lamb, whole grains.

However, it is also important to remember that high dosage of iron can cause a death when taken by children. Therefore, if you decide to give zinc supplements to your children, keep them out of their reach and limit the dose to just 10mg daily.

Natures Plus Source Of Life Animal Parade

Natures Plus Source of Life Animal Parade is a comprehensive multivitamin that contains the usual vitamins and minerals youd expect, plus extracts from pineapple and apple as natural sweeteners.

This multivitamin does contain iron, though at a fairly low dose , so do keep this in mind if you are trying to limit your childs iron intake.

The sugar content might be a turn-off for parents looking to keep sugar intake to an absolute minimum, but aside from the sugar, there are no other undesirable ingredients like coloring or flavoring agents.

Recommended Reading: Are New Chapter Vitamins Safe

How To Choose A Childrens Multivitamin

The multivitamin that will be most effective is the one that your child will actually take. Look for fun flavors in a chewable format, but make sure your child understands these are vitaminsnot candyand keep them in child-proof containers.

I recommend liquid or chewable vitamins for my families since they are thought to be more shelf-stable than gummy vitamins and lower in sugar, says Dr. Burgert.

Key nutrients in particular that your child might benefit from include vitamin D and iron opt for formulas without added sugars, artificial sweeteners, colors, flavorings or preservatives. Additionally, check to see if the multivitamin has been third-party testedthis can provide reassurance of the quality of the product and that its free from certain contaminants.

Vitamin A Overdose And Its Side Effects

Being a fat-soluble vitamin, the body stores the extra vitamin A primarily in the liver and releases it when needed. However, in the case of excess storage, vitamin A toxicity can occur due to excessive consumption of preformed vitamin A and not provitamin A .

Some of the symptoms of chronic toxicity are :

• Dry itchy skin or skin irritation/rashes or desquamation
• Nausea

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient and must be a part of a childs diet for proper growth and development. To ensure your child receives adequate vitamin A, ensure to provide a balanced diet. Our list of vitamin A foods can help you choose the ingredient to prepare a vitamin A meal for your child. However, avoid vitamin A supplementations for children without a prescription from a medical professional. You may also teach your children about vitamin A and its uses, as this will help them in their foods choice and choose wisely.

References:

You May Like: Does Vitamin Water Have Electrolytes

Children Eating A Vegan Or Vegetarian Diet

Children eating a vegan diet need to take a vitamin B12 supplement. This is because vitamin B12 is only present in animal products, such as meat and dairy. Some fortified plant-based foods contain vitamin B12.

The American Dietetic Association advise that a well-planned vegetarian diet is appropriate for people during all life stages.

A child may need a supplement if they eat a plant-based diet that does not include all essential food groups.

A person can ask a dietitian for advice on planning plant-based meals and snacks for their child.

Try The Lightly And Naturally Flavored Liquid Multivitamin That Is Nearly Undetectable Added To Any Juice Drink Or Even Water

Childrens Best Complete Sugar-Free Multivitamin is a popular choice for conscientious parents, but it doesnt come in liquid form. Tropical Oasis Premium Kids Multivitamin, however, is a liquid vitamin that is comparable to Childrens Best. This vitamin is non-GMO, no sugar, and because its a liquid it allows for maximum absorption . Each dose contains 100% of the Recommended Daily Intake of 14 vitamins. This product is for children four years of age and older.

Another fantastic liquid vitamin option is Best Nest Multi + for Kids . This option is considered very comprehensive in terms of vitamin and mineral content . There are at least 22 different vitamins and minerals in this product, along with a digestive health blend and fruit and vegetable blend. This multivitamin is for children starting at one year of age, and has a natural pineapple-coconut flavor that kids love.

Read Also: Is Vitamin D Milk Bad For You

Reduces Your Risk Of Acne

Acne is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder.

People with this condition develop painful spots and blackheads, most commonly on the face, back and chest.

These spots occur when the sebaceous glands get clogged up with dead skin and oils. These glands are found in the hair follicles on your skin and produce sebum, an oily, waxy substance that keeps your skin lubricated and waterproof.

Though the spots are physically harmless, acne may have a serious effect on peoples mental health and lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression .

The exact role that vitamin A plays in the development and treatment of acne remains unclear .

It has been suggested that vitamin A deficiency may increase your risk of developing acne, as it causes an overproduction of the protein keratin in your hair follicles.

This would increase your risk of acne by making it more difficult for dead skin cells to be removed from hair follicles, leading to blockages.

Some vitamin-A-based medications for acne are now available with a prescription.

Isotretinoin is one example of an oral retinoid that is effective in treating severe acne. However, this medication can have serious side effects and must only be taken under medical supervision.

SUMMARY

The exact role of vitamin A in the prevention and treatment of acne is unclear. Yet, vitamin-A-based medications are often used to treat severe acne.

B12 And Other B Vitamins

The B vitamins are important for metabolism, energy, and a healthy heart and nervous system. One of the most important B vitamins is B12.

Who Needs It and How Much:

Recommended intake is measured in micrograms:

• Babies: about 0.5 micrograms daily.
• Toddlers: 0.9 micrograms daily.
• Ages 4-8: 1.2 micrograms daily.
• Ages 9-13: 1.8 micrograms daily.
• Teens: 2.4 micrograms daily

Foods That Have It:

Vitamin B12 comes mainly from animal-based foods, like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Most kids usually get enough B12 in a regular diet, but vegetarian/vegan kids may not, says Debi Silber, MS, RD, a dietitian in Dix Hills, N.Y. Look for fortified foods that are high in B12. Check food labels for the content of cyanocobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12.

Also Check: When And How To Take Vitamin D

Best Vitamins For Children Growth Vitamin C

It is a water-soluble nutrient, which you can find in some certain foods. It acts as a natural antioxidant in your childs body. While vitamin C mainly helps the body fight against infections as well as free radicals, it also contributes to the formation of collagen. This protein is vital to help your childs body heal and recover from injuries. In addition to this, iron, an important mineral for growth, will be absorbed more effectively when vitamin C is available in the system.

Unfortunately, our body does not create vitamin C on its own and our body does not store this vitamin. Therefore, adding vitamin C-rich foods to your childs daily diet is very important in case you want him to stay healthy and grow taller. A variety of vegetables and fruits, especially citrus fruits and lemon provide a large amount of vitamin C. Besides, some other fruits and vegetables also contain vitamin C including green and sweet red peppers, orange juice grapefruit juice, tomatoes, strawberries, turnip greens, broccoli, potatoes, spinach, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, papaya, mango, winter squash, cranberries, blueberries, watermelon, pineapples and cantaloupe. Typically, dietary supplements contain vitamin C in the ascorbic acid form. Children aged 4-8 should aim at taking in an average of 25mg of vitamin C daily.

In fact, vitamin C is actually one of the best vitamins for children that you should add vitamin C-rich foods to your childrens diet for good.

Should Every Child Take Vitamins

Many health organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dietetic Association indicate that diet is the best source of vitamins and minerals.

Kids who are healthy, active, eat a variety of foods and see a healthcare professional on a consistent basis likely do not need to take vitamin or mineral supplements unless recommended by their doctor.

“Eating a healthy, balanced, and varied diet from all food groups is the ideal way to obtain all vitamins and minerals that are essential for daily functioning,” says Jonathan Valdez, RDN, CDE, CPT, owner of Genki Nutrition and media spokesperson for New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Plus, large doses of vitamins or megavitamins can be dangerous. Taking too much can put kids at risk for nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, liver problems, and nerve abnormalities.

The best approach to ensuring your kids are getting the vitamins and minerals they need is to offer a variety of nutritious foods as well as be a good role model. Ideally, their diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein foods like nuts, tofu, poultry, fish, and eggs, legumes like beans and lentils, and dairy or dairy alternatives.

“Allowing their child to choose healthy options and even having kids help grow and prepare healthy meals are excellent ways to have kids eat enough to get the necessary daily vitamins and minerals,” Valdez says.

You May Like: What Should Be In A Prenatal Vitamin

Best Vitamins For Children Growth Vitamin E

The vitamins for children growth that you should try to add to your childrens diet must include vitamin E. This vitamin helps limit the production of harmful free radicals, which can harm cells. Essential for DNA repair, immunity as well as other metabolic processes.

Some foods rich in vitamin E include dark leafy greens, seeds, nuts, avocados, fish, shellfish . So, try to add them to your childrens diet to help them stay healthy and grow taller.

Nordic Naturals Nordic Berries

Famed for their high-quality fish oil supplements, Nordic Naturals also makes a multivitamin for kids.

Surprisingly, these gummy multivitamins do not include any omega 3 fatty acids, though they do supply 50% of the recommended daily intake for most of the essential vitamins and minerals.

While the nutrient quality is okay, the major drawback with this multivitamin for kids is the sugar contentat seven grams per serving, these gummies deliver quite a lot of sugar, which is not the best thing for your childs development.

You May Like: Where Can I Buy Bariatric Fusion Vitamins

Promotes Healthy Growth And Reproduction

Vitamin A is essential for maintaining a healthy reproductive system in both men and women, as well as ensuring the normal growth and development of embryos during pregnancy.

Rat studies examining the importance of vitamin A in male reproduction have shown that a deficiency blocks the development of sperm cells, causing infertility

Likewise, animal studies have suggested that vitamin A deficiency in females can impact reproduction by reducing egg quality and affecting egg implantation in the womb .

In pregnant women, vitamin A is also involved in the growth and development of many major organs and structures of the unborn child, including the skeleton, nervous system, heart, kidneys, eyes, lungs and pancreas.

Yet, though much less common than vitamin A deficiency, too much vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to the growing baby as well and may lead to birth defects

Therefore, many health authorities recommended that women avoid foods that contain concentrated amounts of vitamin A, such as pâté and liver, as well as supplements containing vitamin A during pregnancy.

SUMMARY

Adequate amounts of vitamin A in the diet are essential for reproductive health and the healthy development of babies during pregnancy.

The Healthiest Childrens Omega 3 Supplements

The primary Omega 3 supplement Id recommend for kids is Nordic Naturals. They have an infant DHA supplement and a childrens DHA supplement both of which are extremely pure, has no added preservatives or sugar, and are in liquid form so they can be added to just about anything! ChildLife Cod Liver Oil is also a good option for kids starting at 6 months of age!

Don’t Miss: What Vitamins Should A 21 Year Old Male Take

When Might Supplements Be Needed

Vitamin D: The AAP recommends a supplement of 200 IU/d of Vitamin D for all breastfed infants. Non-breastfed infants and children who do not get regular sunlight exposure or have a low intake of vitamin D fortified formula or milk also need a supplement.

Iron: Full-term breastfed infants need a supplemental source of iron starting at 4-6 months of age. The iron should preferably come from infant cereal an average of 2 servings is needed. Iron drops should be used if the infant is unable to consume enough iron from the diet.

For infants on formula, only iron-fortified formula should be used during the first year of life. For young children ages 1-5, avoid a milk intake of greater than 3 cups per day since this can lead to iron deficiency by taking the place of iron-rich foods.

Children in their second year may need a daily multivitamin with iron, especially if there is a lack of meat-based iron in the diet. However, 4 oz. of YoBaby Plus Cereal Yogurt or ? cup of Cheerios or 1 packet of Cream of Wheat will meet your toddler’s daily iron needs. Children who consume a vegetarian diet and adolescent females who are not receiving an iron supplement should be screened for anemia.

Fluoride: Exclusively breastfed infants over the age of 6 months and children up to age 16 years may need a fluoride supplement depending on the fluoride concentration in the local water supply.

The 4 Most Important Vitamins And Supplements For Kids

Infancy and early childhood are critical times in development, and establishing strong nutritional habits is essential for optimizing health during early life and beyond. Both the World Health Organization and the leading Canadian and American pediatric societies recommend that infants be exclusively fed with breast milk for the first six months of their lives, which should then be complemented with, and eventually replaced by, a wide variety of whole foods. Healthy term infants are largely able to meet their nutritional requirements from breast milk alone, with the exception of vitamin D. While a diverse diet containing a broad array of fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and proteins should provide nearly everything a growing child needs , some children may benefit from additional supplemental nutrients starting at six months of life.

As parents, navigating the world of nutrients can be overwhelming: which ones are essential? Which are optional? Which ones should be prescribed by a doctor? These are the most commonly prescribed supplements, their benefits, and recommended doses for otherwise healthy infants and children.

Read Also: Are Organic Vitamins Better For You