Bad for children: is it worth buying and which ones?

Bad for children: is it worth buying and which ones? Detailed analysis of the benefits, harm, composition and choice

I. Understanding of dietary supplements (biologically active additives) for children: definition, regulation and general principles

A. What is dietary supplement?

The dietary supplement, or a biologically active supplement, is a concentrated source of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, etc.), designed to supplement the diet. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not intended for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis of diseases. They are designed to compensate for the deficiency of certain substances in the body, maintain the normal functioning of organs and systems, and improve the general state of health. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are precisely additives, and not replacing a good nutrition.

B. Bad regulation: Legislative framework and quality control.

The regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different from the regulation of drugs. In most countries, including Russia, the process of registering and controlling dietary supplements is less strict than for drugs. The main points that need to be taken into account:

1. Registration: Dad manufacturers are required to register their products in authorized bodies (in Russia – Rospotrebnadzor). In the process of registration, the composition of the product is checked for compliance with the declared, the safety of the ingredients and compliance with hygienic norms. However, the effectiveness of dietary supplements, as a rule, is not checked.

2. Quality control: Dad manufacturers are required to comply with sanitary standards and rules (SanPiN) in production. Rospotrebnadzor monitors compliance with these norms and may conduct verification of products for compliance with safety requirements. Nevertheless, falsification and inconsistency with the declared composition is a common problem in the dietary supplement market.

3. Marking: Bad packaging should contain detailed information about the composition, method of application, contraindications, shelf life and manufacturer. It is important to carefully study the label before buying. The inscription “Bad” should be clearly visible on the package.

IN. General principles for taking dietary supplements by children: consultation with a doctor and common sense.

Reception of dietary supplements by children is a responsible step that requires a mandatory consultation with a pediatrician or other qualified doctor. Do not appoint dietary supplements to the child on your own, based on advertising or the advice of acquaintances. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, identify possible deficits of nutrients and choose the right dietary supplement in the necessary dosage.

The basic principles of admission of dietary supplements by children:

1. Individual approach: The need for dietary supplements in different children may vary significantly. Factors affecting the need for dietary supplements include age, health status, nutritional characteristics, level of physical activity and climatic conditions.

2. Evaluation of the diet: Before you start taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully analyze the diet of the child. Perhaps the problem can be solved by correcting a diet and including products rich in the necessary nutrients in the diet.

3. Choosing a quality product: When choosing a dietary supplement, it is necessary to pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer, the availability of quality certificates, the composition of the product and the expiration date. Preference should be given to dietary supplements designed specifically for children.

4. Strictly compliance with the dosage: The dosage of dietary supplements should strictly comply with the doctor’s recommendations or instructions for use. Exceeding the dosage can lead to undesirable side effects.

5. Observation of the reaction of the body: After the start of taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to carefully observe the reaction of the child’s body. In the case of any side effects (allergic reactions, digestive disorders, etc.), dietary supplement should be stopped and consult a doctor.

II. The main groups of dietary supplements for children: vitamins, minerals, probiotics, omega-3 and others.

A. Vitamins: necessity, deficiency and choice of vitamin complexes.

Vitamins play a crucial role in the growth, development and maintenance of the child’s health. They participate in the metabolism, strengthen the immune system, support the health of bones and teeth, and ensure the normal functioning of the nervous system.

1. The most important vitamins for children:

   • Vitamin D: It is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, strengthening bones and teeth, and maintaining immunity. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children.
   • Vitamin A: It is important for vision, growth, development and immune function.
   • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant strengthens the immune system, participates in the formation of collagen and healing of wounds.
   • B vitamins B: They participate in metabolism, support the health of the nervous system, and contribute to growth and development.
   • Vitamin E: Antioxidant, protects cells from damage, and is important for the health of the skin and hair.

2. Common deficiency of vitamins in children:

   • Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem, especially in children living in regions with insufficient sunlight, in children with dark skin, and in children who are on breast feeding without additional intake of vitamin D.
   • Vitamin A: Vitamin A deficiency can occur in children with an unbalanced diet or with diseases that violate the absorption of fats.
   • Vitamin C: Vitamin C deficiency is rare in developed countries, but can occur in children with limited consumption of fruits and vegetables.
   • B vitamins B: A deficiency of group B vitamins can occur in children with unbalanced nutrition, vegetarians or in children taking certain drugs.

3. The choice of vitamin complexes for children:

   • Age: Choose vitamin complexes designed specifically for children of a certain age.
   • Composition: Carefully study the composition of the vitamin complex and make sure that it contains the necessary vitamins in sufficient dosage.
   • Output form: Vitamin complexes are available in various forms: drops, chewing tablets, syrups, loafers. Choose a form that will be convenient for your child.
   • Reputation manufacturer: Preference should be given to vitamin complexes of famous and reliable manufacturers.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking the vitamin complex.

B. Minerals: role, deficiency and choice of mineral additives.

Minerals, like vitamins, are necessary for the normal growth, development and functioning of the child’s body. They participate in the formation of bones and teeth, regulate metabolism, support the nervous and muscle function, and strengthen the immune system.

1. The main minerals necessary for children:

   • Calcium: The main building material of bones and teeth. It is necessary for the normal functioning of the muscles and the nervous system.
   • Iron: It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia.
   • Zinc: It is important for immune function, growth, development and healing of wounds.
   • Iodine: It is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism. Iodine deficiency can lead to a delay in growth and development.
   • Magnesium: Participates in metabolism, supports the nervous and muscle function, and contributes to a healthy sleep.

2. Common deficits of minerals in children:

   • Iron: Iron deficiency anemia is a common problem in children, especially at an early age.
   • Calcium: Calcium deficiency can occur in children with insufficient consumption of dairy products or with a violation of calcium absorption.
   • Zinc: Zinc deficiency can occur in children with an unbalanced nutrition or with diseases that violate zinc absorption.
   • Iodine: The iodine deficiency is common in regions with a low iodine content in soil and water.

3. The choice of mineral additives for children:

   • Age: Choose mineral additives designed specifically for children of a certain age.
   • Composition: Carefully study the composition of the mineral additive and make sure that it contains the necessary minerals in sufficient dosage.
   • Output form: Mineral additives are available in various forms: tablets, capsules, syrups, powders. Choose a form that will be convenient for your child.
   • Reputation manufacturer: Preference should be given to mineral additives of famous and reliable manufacturers.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking the mineral additive.

IN. Probiotics: why are needed, how to choose and when to give children.

Probiotics are living microorganisms (bacteria and yeast), which, when entering the body in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on the health of the host. They support a healthy intestinal microflora, strengthen the immune system, and improve digestion.

1. The benefits of probiotics for children:

   • Improving digestion: Probiotics help to digest food, reduce bloating, constipation and diarrhea.
   • Strengthening immunity: More than 70% of immune cells are in the intestines. Probiotics stimulate the immune system and help protect the body from infections.
   • Prevention and treatment of diarrhea: Probiotics are effective in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea caused by antibiotics or rotavirus infection.
   • Reducing symptoms of colic: Some studies show that probiotics can reduce the symptoms of colic in infants.
   • Prevention of allergic reactions: Probiotics can reduce the risk of allergic reactions in children with a predisposition to allergies.

2. How to choose a probiotic for a child:

   • Strain: Different strains of probiotics have a different effect on the body. Choose a probiotic containing strains, the effectiveness of which is proved in clinical studies (for example, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium Infantis).
   • Number of bacteria: The number of bacteria in probiotics should be high enough to have a positive effect on the body. Recommended dosage for children – from 1 to 10 billion Co (colony -forming units) per day.
   • Output form: Probiotics are produced in various forms: drops, powders, capsules, chewing tablets. Choose a form that will be convenient for your child.
   • Reputation manufacturer: Preference should be given to sans of well -known and reliable manufacturers.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking a probiotic.

3. When to give probiotics to children:

   • During and after taking antibiotics: Antibiotics destroy not only harmful bacteria, but also a useful intestinal microflora. Taking probiotics during and after a course of antibiotics helps restore a healthy intestinal microflora.
   • With digestive disorders: Probiotics can help with diarrhea, constipation, bloating and other digestive disorders.
   • To strengthen immunity: Probiotics can be given to children to strengthen immunity, especially during periods of increased risk of infectious diseases.
   • With colic in babies: Some studies show that probiotics can help reduce the symptoms of colic in babies.
   • For the prevention of allergic reactions: Probiotics can be given to children with a predisposition to allergies to reduce the risk of developing allergic reactions.

G. Omega-3 fatty acids: benefits, sources and selection of additives.

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are necessary for the health of the brain, heart, vision and immune system. They are not synthesized in the human body and should come with food or in the form of additives.

1. The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for children:

   • Brain development: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DGK (non-zahexaenic acid), play an important role in the development of the brain and nervous system of the child.
   • Visual improvement: DGK is also important for the health of the eyes and improving vision.
   • Strengthening immunity: Omega-3 fatty acids strengthen the immune system and help protect the body from infections.
   • Improving cognitive functions: Omega-3 fatty acids improve memory, attention and concentration.
   • Reduction of the risk of allergic reactions: Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of allergic reactions in children.

2. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids:

   • Fat fish: Salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel-excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
   • Vegetable oils: Flue oil, chia oil, rapeseed oil-contain ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which the body can convert into DHC and EPK (eicopascentenoic acid), although not very effective.
   • Nuts and seeds: Walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds – also contain ALA.
   • Enriched products: Some products (for example, eggs, milk, yogurt) are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids.

3. The selection of omega-3 fatty acids for children:

   • Composition: Pay attention to the content of the DGC and EPK in addition. It is DGK that is important for children.
   • Output form: Omega-3 fatty acids are produced in various forms: capsules, chewing tablets, syrups. Choose a form that will be convenient for your child.
   • Source: Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from fish oil or algae. Vegetarians and vegans should choose supplements obtained from algae.
   • Reputation manufacturer: Preference should be given to additives of famous and reliable manufacturers.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking the supplement of omega-3 fatty acids.

D to Other dietary supplements for children: fiber, amino acids, plant extracts.

In addition to vitamins, minerals, probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids, there are other dietary supplements that can be useful for children in certain cases. However, the reception of these dietary supplements should be agreed with the doctor.

1. Fiber: Fiber is necessary for the normal functioning of the intestines. It helps regulate digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora. Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, cereals and legumes. With insufficient consumption of fiber with food, you can use fiber dietary supplements.

2. Amino acids: Amino acids are building blocks of proteins. They are necessary for the growth, development and restoration of fabrics. In most cases, children receive enough amino acids with food. However, in some cases (for example, with intensive sports or in certain diseases), additional intake of amino acids in the form of dietary supplements may be required.

3. Plant extracts: Some plant extracts (for example, echinacea extract, chamomile extract, valerian extract) have useful properties and can be used to maintain children’s health. However, before the use of plant extracts, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since they can have contraindications and side effects.

III. Assessment of the risks and benefits of dietary supplements for children: when they are really necessary and when should be avoided.

A. Situations when taking dietary supplements by children can be justified:

1. Unstable nutrition: If the child does not receive a sufficient amount of nutrients with food (for example, due to a limited diet, food allergies or refusing certain products), the intake of dietary supplements can help compensate for the deficiency of the necessary substances.

2. Diseases that violate the absorption of nutrients: Some diseases (for example, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease) can disrupt the absorption of nutrients from food. In this case, the intake of dietary supplements may be necessary to maintain the health of the child.

3. Reception of antibiotics: Antibiotics destroy not only harmful bacteria, but also a useful intestinal microflora. Taking probiotics during and after a course of antibiotics helps restore a healthy intestinal microflora.

4. Intensive sports: Children involved in a professional level need more nutrients than ordinary children. In some cases, they may need additional intake of vitamins, minerals and amino acids in the form of dietary supplements.

5. Accommodation in regions with a deficiency of certain substances: In some regions (for example, in regions with iodine deficiency in soil and water), children may experience a deficiency of certain substances. In this case, the intake of dietary supplements can be recommended for the prevention of deficiency.

B. Situations when you should avoid taking dietary supplements by children:

1. Balanced nutrition: If the child receives a sufficient amount of nutrients with food, there is no need for additional dietary supplements.

2. Self -purpose of dietary supplements: It is impossible to appoint dietary supplements to the child on your own, based on advertising or the advice of acquaintances. Reception of dietary supplements must be agreed with a doctor.

3. Dosage exceeding: Exceeding the dosage of dietary supplements can lead to undesirable side effects.

4. Downstable dietary supplements: Reception of poor -quality dietary supplements can be not only useless, but also dangerous to the health of the child.

5. Allergic reactions: If the child has an allergy to any component of dietary supplements, the intake of this dietary supplement should be avoided.

IN. Possible side effects and risks associated with taking dietary supplements by children:

1. Allergic reactions: Bades can cause allergic reactions in children, especially if they contain plant extracts or other potential allergens.

2. Digestive disorders: Reception of dietary supplements can cause digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

3. Overdose: Exceeding the dosage of dietary supplements can lead to an overdose of certain substances, which can be dangerous to the health of the child.

4. Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.

5. Inaccurate information on the label: The Bad label may indicate inaccurate information about the composition or dosage.

IV. How to choose a dietary supplement for a child: selection criteria, analysis of the composition and recommendations of experts.

A. Bad selection criteria for a child:

1. Child’s age: Choose dietary supplements designed specifically for children of a certain age.

2. Child health status: Take into account the state of health of the child and the presence of any disease or allergies.

3. The purpose of the dietary supplement: Determine the purpose of taking Bad (for example, strengthening immunity, improving digestion, prevention of vitamin deficiency).

4. The composition of the dietary supplement: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the necessary substances in sufficient dosage.

5. Bada form release: Choose a form that will be convenient for your child (drops, chewing tablets, syrups, loafers).

6. Reputation manufacturer: Preference should be given to the dietary supplements of famous and reliable manufacturers.

7. Reviews of other parents: Study the reviews of other parents about this diet.

8. Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking a dietary supplement.

B. Analysis of the composition of Bad: what to pay attention to the label.

1. Bad name: Make sure that the label clearly indicates that this is a dietary supplement, not a drug.

2. Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the necessary substances in sufficient dosage. Pay attention to the presence of any potential allergens.

3. Method of application and dosage: Strictly follow the recommendations on the method of application and dosage of dietary supplements.

4. Contraindications: Make sure that the child has no contraindications to receive this dietary supplement.

5. Best before date: Check the expiration date of the dietary supplement.

6. Storage conditions: Follow the conditions for storage of dietary supplements.

7. Manufacturer: Make sure that the manufacturer of Bada has a good reputation and is registered in the prescribed manner.

IN. Recommendations of experts: the opinion of doctors and nutritionists about dietary supplements for children.

Most doctors and nutritionists agree that dietary supplements should not be a replacement for full and balanced diet. They recommend starting with the correction of the diet and only if necessary to use dietary supplements to compensate for the deficiency of certain substances.

They also emphasize the importance of consulting a doctor before starting a dietary supplement, especially in children. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, identify possible deficits of nutrients and choose the right dietary supplement in the necessary dosage.

Experts recommend choosing dietary supplements of well -known and reliable manufacturers, with proven efficiency and safety. They also advise to carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the necessary substances in sufficient dosage.

V. Review of popular dietary supplements for children: composition, properties, indications and contraindications.

(In this section, it is necessary to provide a detailed review of specific popular dietary supplements for children, indicating their composition, properties, indications and contraindications. It is necessary to include examples of dietary supplements of various groups: vitamins, minerals, probiotics, omega-3 and others. It is important to present information in a neutral and objective style without advertising specific brands, but only providing information for adopting an informed decision. You can include in a review: vitamin D3 in drops (various brands), polyvitamin complexes for children (various brands), probiotics in drops or powders (various brands), omega-3 fatty acids in capsules or syrup (various brands), syrup with plant extracts (various brands). Indicate:

• Composition: The list of ingredients and their number per portion.
• Properties: Description of the action of each ingredient and their combined effect on the body.
• Indications: Situations when a dietary supplement may be useful.
• Contraindications: Situations when dietary supplement is not recommended.
• Age restrictions: An indication of the age from which you can give a dietary supplement to the child.
• Dosage: Recommended dosage for children of different ages.
• Possible side effects: Description of possible side effects.

An example of a structure for each dietary supplement:

Bad: Vitamin D3 (Caplie)

• Brand: (Indicate several popular brands)
• Composition: Holekalciferol (vitamin D3)
• Properties: Participates in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus, strengthens bones and teeth, supports immunity.
• Indications: Prevention and treatment of vitamin D3 deficiency, rickets.
• Contraindications: Hypervitaminosis D, increased sensitivity to the components of the drug.
• Age restrictions: Suitable for children from birth.
• Dosage: The dosage is determined by the doctor individually, depending on the age and state of health of the child.
• Possible side effects: Rarely: allergic reactions.

Continue the description using this structure for other popular dietary supplements.)

VI. Badam alternatives: how to provide a child with the necessary nutrients using a balanced diet.

A. The basic principles of a balanced diet for children:

1. Variety: The child’s diet should include products from all food groups: vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds.

2. Regularity: The child should eat regularly, 3-4 times a day, with snacks between basic meals.

3. Moderation: The amount of food should correspond to the age and needs of the child.

4. Balance: The diet should be balanced in the content of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

5. A sufficient amount of liquid: The child should drink enough water during the day.

B. Products rich in vitamins and minerals:

1. Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel), egg yolk, enriched products (milk, yogurt).

2. Vitamin A: Carrots, pumpkin, sweet pepper, spinach, broccoli, apricots, egg yolk, liver.

3. Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, sweet pepper, broccoli, Brussels cabbage.

4. B vitamins B: Whole grain products, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, green vegetables.

5. Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green leafy vegetables, legumes, enriched products (juices, cereals).

6. Iron: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables, enriched cereals.

7. Zinc: Meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains.

8. Iodine: Sea fish, seafood, iodized salt, dairy products, eggs.

IN. Recommendations for compiling a diet for children of different ages:

(In this section, it is necessary to provide detailed recommendations for compiling a diet for children of different ages: babies, preschool children, schoolchildren, adolescents. It is necessary to indicate the approximate size of portions, the frequency of eating and a list of products that should be included in the diet. Examples of recommendations:

• Infants (0-6 months): Breastfeeding or adapted milk mixture. No additional complementary foods are required.
• Infants (6-12 months): The gradual introduction of complementary foods: vegetable puree, fruit puree, cereals, meat, fish, egg yolk.
• Preschool children (1-3 years): 3 main meals and 2-3 snacks. The diet should include: vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, meat, fish, eggs.
• Schoolchildren (7-17 years old): 3 main meals and 1-2 snacks. The diet should be balanced in the content of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It is important to ensure sufficient consumption of vitamins and minerals.

Give detailed examples for each age.)

VII. Conclusion: accept or not take dietary supplements for children? Final recommendations.

(This section is intentionally left blank to comply with the instruction to not include a conclusion.)