B vitamins for children: for energy and growth

Posted on by

Do not include a table of contents.
Do not include a FAQ section.
Do not include a call to action.

B vitamins for children: for energy and growth

Understanding the role of group B vitamins in children’s development

B vitamins are not one vitamin, but a whole complex consisting of eight water -soluble vitamins, each of which plays an important role in maintaining the health and well -being of children. These vitamins, often called B-complex, are necessary for various cellular processes, including energy metabolism, the functioning of the nervous system and growth and development. Unlike fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), B vitamins do not accumulate in large quantities in the body and require regular intake with food. The disadvantage of any of the vitamins of group B can lead to various health problems, especially in children whose bodies are growing rapidly and developing.

Eight main vitamins of group B and their functions

Each of the eight vitamins of group B plays a unique and important role in children’s health. Understanding the functions of each of them allows parents and guardians to provide sufficient consumption to maintain optimal growth and development.

  1. TIAMIN (VITAMIN B1): Tiamine is necessary for converting carbohydrates into energy, which is extremely important for active children. It also plays a role in the functioning of the nervous system and muscles. The disadvantage of thiamine can lead to fatigue, irritability and problems with concentration. In severe cases, Beri-Beri’s disease may develop, although this is rare in developed countries. Good sources of thiamine are whole -grain products, enriched cereals, pork and legumes.

  2. Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Riboflavin is involved in energy metabolism, cell growth and vision functioning. It helps the body use other B vitamins, as well as vitamin A. The riboflavin deficiency can cause cracks in the corners of the mouth (angular stomatitis), inflammation of the tongue (glossitis) and photophobia. Riboflavin is found in milk, eggs, meat and green leafy vegetables.

  3. Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin is necessary for energy exchange, skin health and nervous system. It participates in hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body. Niacin deficiency can lead to Pellagra, a disease characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia (although this is extremely rare in developed countries). Good sources of Niacin are meat, poultry, fish, peanuts and enriched cereals. The body can also synthesize niacin from the amino acid of tryptophan.

  4. Pantotenic acid (vitamin B5): Pantotenic acid is a component of coherent A (COA), which is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also participates in the synthesis of hormones and cholesterol. Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare, since it is widespread in food. Symptoms of deficiency may include fatigue, headache and insomnia. Sources of pantothenic acid include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, mushrooms, avocados and sweet potatoes.

  5. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): Pyridoxine plays a key role in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. He also participates in the formation of red blood cells and neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood and sleep. Pyridoxine deficiency can lead to anemia, skin rashes, depression and convulsions. Pyridoxine is contained in meat, poultry, fish, legumes, nuts and bananas.

  6. Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It is also important for the health of hair, skin and nails. Biotin’s deficiency is rare, but can occur in people who consume a large amount of raw egg proteins (which contain avidine, protein that binds biotin and prevents its absorption). Symptoms of deficiency may include hair loss, skin rashes and neurological problems. Biotin is found in eggs, liver, nuts, seeds and sweet potatoes.

  7. Folate (Vitamin B9): The folate is necessary for the growth and development of cells, especially during pregnancy and infancy. It plays an important role in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, as well as in the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid deficiency during pregnancy can lead to defects in the nerve tube in the fetus. In children, folic acid deficiency can lead to anemia and deceleration of growth. The folate is found in green leafy vegetables, legumes, orange juice and enriched cereals. The synthetic form of folic acid, called folic acid, is often added to food and additives.

  8. Cobalamin (vitamin B12): Cobalamin is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system, the formation of red blood cells and DNA synthesis. It also helps the body use folic acid. Cobalamine deficiency can lead to pernicious anemia, neurological problems and growth retardation. Cobalamin is found only in animal products, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. Vegetarians and vegans need to receive cobalamin from enriched foods or additives.

Signs of deficiency of group B vitamins in children

Recognition of signs of deficiency of group B vitamins in children is important for timely intervention and preventing long -term health problems. Symptoms can vary depending on a specific vitamin, which is not enough, and the degree of deficiency.

  • Fatigue and weakness: General fatigue and weakness can be a sign of a deficiency of several B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantotenic acid, pyridoxine and cobamine. This is due to the fact that these vitamins are involved in energy exchange, and their deficiency can lead to a decrease in energy production.

  • Irritability and mood swings: B vitamins, especially pyridoxine and cobalamin, play an important role in the functioning of the nervous system and the development of neurotransmitters that regulate the mood. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to irritability, mood swings and even depression.

  • Skin problems: Riboflavin, niacin and biotin deficiency can manifest itself in the form of skin rashes, dry skin, cracks in the corners of the mouth (angular stomatitis) and inflammation of the tongue (glossitis).

  • Digestive problems: The deficiency of group B vitamins, especially thiamine, niacin and cobalamin, can disrupt digestion and lead to symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

  • Slow down growth: B vitamins are necessary for the growth and development of cells. The deficiency of folic acid and cobalamine can lead to a slowdown in growth and developmental delay.

  • Anemia: The deficiency of pyridoxine, folic acid and cobalamine can lead to anemia, a state in which there are not enough red blood cells in the body. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin and shortness of breath.

  • Neurological problems: The deficiency of thiamine, pyridoxine and cobalamine can lead to neurological problems, such as tingling and numbness in the arms and legs, difficulties with coordination, confusion and cramps.

If you suspect that your child has a deficiency of group B vitamins, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor can conduct an examination and blood tests to determine if your child has a deficit, and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Factors affecting the need of children for vitamins of group B

Several factors can affect the need of children for B vitamins B. Understanding these factors can help parents and guardians provide sufficient consumption of group B vitamins to maintain optimal health and development.

  • Age: The need for vitamins of group B changes depending on the age of the child. Infants and young children need more B vitamins per kilogram of body weight than older children and adults, as they grow and develop quickly.

  • Nutrition diet: The child’s diet is the main factor that determines its consumption of B vitamins B. Children who adhere to a variety of and balanced diet containing many whole grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products are likely to receive a sufficient amount of group B. to the children who adhere to a restrictive diet, have food allergies or food allergies or food allergies or food allergies or food allergies or food allergies intolerance, or which consume a lot of processed products, can be at risk of deficiency of vitamins of group B.

  • Health status: Certain states of health can increase the child’s need for vitamins of group B. For example, children with diseases affecting the absorption of nutrients, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease, may require more vitamins of group B. Children taking certain drugs, such as antibiotics or anticonvulsant drugs, may also require more vitamins of group B.

  • Physical activity: Active children may need more vitamins of group B than less active children, since group B vitamins are involved in energy exchange.

  • Genetics: Genetics can play a role in how the child’s body assimilates and uses group B vitamins. Some children can be more prone to deficiency of group B vitamins than others, due to genetic factors.

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant and nursing mothers need more B vitamins than non -acquired and non -innocent women, since group B vitamins are necessary for the growth and development of the fetus and child.

Drill sources of group B vitamins for children

Ensuring the receipt of group B vitamins with food is the best way to satisfy the needs of the child. Here is a review of good sources for each vitamin:

  • TIAMIN (B1): Pork, enriched cereals, whole grain products, legumes, nuts and seeds.
  • Riboflavin (b2): Milk and dairy products, eggs, meat, green leafy vegetables, enriched cereals.
  • Niacin (B3): Meat, poultry, fish, peanuts, enriched cereals.
  • Pantotenic acid (B5): Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, mushrooms, avocados, sweet potatoes.
  • Pyridoxin (B6): Meat, poultry, fish, legumes, nuts, bananas, potatoes.
  • Biotin (B7): Eggs, liver, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes.
  • Folate (B9): Green sheet vegetables, legumes, orange juice, enriched cereals.
  • Kobalamin (B12): Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, enriched food (for vegetarians and vegan).

Recommended daily consumption rate of group B vitamins for children

The recommended daily consumption rate (RSNP) of group B vitamins for children varies depending on age. The values ​​below are general recommendations and can be adjusted by your child’s attending physician, depending on individual needs:

  • TIAMIN (B1):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 0.2 mg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 0.3 mg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 0.5 mg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 0.6 mg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 0.9 mg
    • Adolescents (14-18 years old): 1.2 mg (boys), 1.0 mg (girls)
  • Riboflavin (b2):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 0.3 mg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 0.4 mg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 0.5 mg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 0.6 mg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 0.9 mg
    • Adolescents (14-18 years old): 1.3 mg (boys), 1.0 mg (girls)
  • Niacin (B3):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 2 mg ne (niacin equivalent)
    • Infants (7-12 months): 4 mg ne
    • Children (1-3 years old): 6 mg ne
    • Children (4-8 years old): 8 mg ne
    • Children (9-13 years old): 12 mg ne
    • Adolescents (14-18 years old): 16 mg ne (boys), 14 mg ne (girls)
  • Pantotenic acid (B5): (Adequate consumption, AI)
    • Infants (0-6 months): 1.7 mg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 1.8 mg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 2 mg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 3 mg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 4 mg
    • Teenagers (14-18 years old): 5 mg
  • Pyridoxin (B6):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 0.1 mg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 0.3 mg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 0.5 mg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 0.6 mg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 1.0 mg
    • Adolescents (14-18 years old): 1.3 mg (boys), 1.2 mg (girls)
  • Biotin (B7): (Adequate consumption, AI)
    • Infants (0-6 months): 5 μg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 6 μg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 8 μg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 12 μg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 20 μg
    • Teenagers (14-18 years old): 25 μg
  • Folate (B9):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 65 μg DFE (diet folic equivalent)
    • Infants (7-12 months): 80 μg DFE
    • Children (1-3 years old): 150 mcg DFE
    • Children (4-8 years old): 200 mcg DFE
    • Children (9-13 years old): 300 mcg DFE
    • Teenagers (14-18 years old): 400 mcg DFE
  • Kobalamin (B12):
    • Infants (0-6 months): 0.4 μg
    • Infants (7-12 months): 0.5 μg
    • Children (1-3 years old): 0.9 mcg
    • Children (4-8 years old): 1.2 mcg
    • Children (9-13 years old): 1.8 mcg
    • Teenagers (14-18 years old): 2.4 mcg

B vitamins adds for children: when it is necessary

While receiving group B vitamins from food is preferable, in some cases additives may be required. It is important to discuss this issue with your child’s doctor before starting taking any additives.

  • Vegetarian or vegan diet: Children who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet can be at risk of cobalamin deficiency (B12), since it is found only in animal products. The doctor may recommend cobalamine additives or enriched food.

  • Health status: Children with certain health conditions, such as diseases affecting the absorption of nutrients (Crohn’s disease, celiac disease), or those who take certain drugs may need in additions of vitamins of group B.

  • Restrictive diet: Children who adhere to a restrictive diet due to food allergies, intolerance or other causes may not receive enough group B vitamins from food.

  • Deficiency: If a child has a deficiency of B vitamins, a doctor may recommend additives to restore vitamin levels.

Praise measures when using B vitamins additives

  • Consult a doctor: Before giving a child any B vitamins, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor can determine whether your child needs additives, and recommend the correct dosage.

  • Choose high -quality additives: Choose additives from trusted manufacturers that have passed third -party testing for cleanliness and efficiency.

  • Follow the dosage recommendations: Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Too many vitamins of group B can lead to side effects.

  • Be careful with interaction with medicines: B vitamins can interact with some drugs. Be sure to inform the doctor about all the medicines that your child takes before starting to take the additives of vitamins of group B.

  • Keep additives in no way for children: Keep the additives inaccessible to children a place to prevent accidental swallowing.

Tips for parents to ensure sufficient consumption of B vitamins

  • Offer a variety of and balanced nutrition: Provide the child with a variety of and balanced nutrition containing many whole grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products.

  • Include in the diet products rich in B: Vitamins B: Considerally include products rich in group B. of the child’s diet.

  • Limit the consumption of processed products: Processed products often contain little vitamins of group B. Limit the consumption of processed products and encourage the consumption of whole, unprocessed products.

  • Be attentive to a restrictive diet: If your child adheres to a restrictive diet, make sure that he receives enough vitamins of group B from other sources or using additives (on the recommendation of a doctor).

  • Consult a doctor: If you have any fears about the consumption of group B vitamins with your child, consult your doctor.

The role of group B vitamins in specific aspects of children’s health

In addition to general support for growth and development, B vitamins play an important role in specific aspects of children’s health:

  • Brain function and cognitive development: B vitamins, especially thiamine, niacin, pyridoxine and cobalamin, are necessary for the functioning of the brain and cognitive development. They participate in the development of neurotransmitters that regulate mood, memory and training. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to problems with the concentration of attention, memory and training.

  • Energy level and metabolism: All vitamins of group B play a role in energy metabolism, helping the body transform food into energy. The disadvantage of any of the vitamins of group B can lead to fatigue and a decrease in the energy level.

  • Immune function: B vitamins, especially pyridoxine, folic acid and cobalamin, are important for immune function. They participate in the production of white blood cells that help fight infection. The deficiency of these vitamins can weaken the immune system and make the child more susceptible to infections.

  • Nervous system health: B vitamins, especially thiamine, niacin, pyridoxine and cobalamin, are necessary for the health of the nervous system. They help protect the nerve cells from damage and provide the correct transmission of nerve impulses. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to neurological problems, such as tingling and numbness in the arms and legs, difficulties with coordination and cramps.

  • Cell growth and development: Folat and cobalamin play an important role in the growth and development of cells. They are necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, genetic material, which carries instructions for the growth and functioning of cells. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to a slowdown in growth and developmental delay.

New studies of vitamins of group B and children’s health

Continuing studies continue to disclose new data on the important role of group B vitamins in children’s health. Some recent areas of research include:

  • B vitamins B and mental health: Studies study the relationship between group B vitamins and mental health in children and adolescents. Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins can improve mood and reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

  • B vitamins B and ADHD: Studies study the potential role of group B vitamins in the treatment of attention deficit syndrome (hyperactivity). Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins can improve attention and reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children with ADHD.

  • B vitamins B and autism: Studies study the relationship between group B vitamins and autistic spectrum disorders (RAS). Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins can improve social communication and reduce repeating behavior in children with races.

  • B vitamins and prevention of chronic diseases: Studies study the potential role of group B vitamins in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer, in children and adults.

It is important to note that these studies are still in the early stages, and additional studies are needed to fully understand the role of group B vitamins in these areas of health.

The importance of consultations with a health specialist

The information presented in this article is intended only for educational purposes and should not be considered as a replacement for consultation with a qualified health specialist. Always consult your child’s doctor or registered nutritionist before making any changes to his diet or start taking any additives. They can evaluate the individual needs of your child and provide individual recommendations. Self -medication can be dangerous, and it is important to get appropriate medical consultation to ensure the safety and well -being of your child.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *