Does My Child Need a Supplement?

Are you asking “Does my child need vitamins?” Vitamins are extremely beneficial to children. Certain supplements can be helpful depending on whether your child has a deficiency. Even then, vitamins can prevent illness and strengthen your child’s immune system.

Are Vitamins Necessary for My Child?

If you are asking “Can my child take vitamins”, you should consult with your doctor first. Many times, your doctor will tell you to give your child a supplement. For example, if you are breastfeeding an infant, your pediatrician may tell you to give your infant child vitamin D drops, since vitamin D is not present in breast milk. Premature infants may even be given a multivitamin from their pediatrician to help increase their iron levels prior to being taken out of the NICU.

Either way, you may just make the decision to give your child vitamins once your doctor has given you the okay. Vitamins are beneficial because they help keep kids healthy. Choosing the proper vitamins is important, though. You need to ensure you purchase supplements that are designed for the age of your child. There is no harm in taking vitamins as long as they are not used as a replacement for eating healthily.

You still need to ensure that your child/children are eating plenty of fruits and veggies on top of taking vitamins to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.  

Common Supplements That Can Benefit Children

Your child will need many of the most important vitamins and minerals for their development and growth and to remain healthy. These vitamins include vitamins A, C, B, D, E, D, and K. Additionally, they need iron, iodine, zinc, and calcium. Again, the best way to ensure that your child is receiving all of these nutrients and minerals is by eating enough fruit, veggies, grains, reduced fats, lean meat, etc.

Your child can take a multivitamin. They are available in gummy form, so they are easy for your child to chew and swallow.  

Common Deficiencies That Require Supplements

Many common immune deficiencies in children may require you to give your child a supplement. For example, if your child is vegan or vegetarian, meaning they do not eat meat, they should take vitamin B12.

If your child has celiac disease or is at an increased risk of developing a dietary deficiency, you may also need to give him or her a vitamin. If your child drinks a lot of juice, or other drinks that contain a lot of sugar, has bad eating habits, or even suffers from a chronic health condition, you may need to add a supplement to their diet. If your child takes medication for a health condition, they will need a supplement.  

Many children lack calcium and iron. Iron is beneficial in building muscle and is also required to create red blood cells. If you are unsure what foods to give your child that contain iron, try pork, beef, turkey, or even beans.  

As always, before you assume your child needs a supplement, or if you are unsure where to begin, you should consult with your child’s doctor.

 

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