Vitamins for children: Pediatrician advice

Part 1: fundamental knowledge about vitamins and children’s health

1. The role of vitamins in the development of the child: key aspects

   Vitamins are organic compounds necessary in small quantities to maintain vital functions of the body. In childhood, when the body is actively growing and developing, the role of vitamins becomes especially important. They participate in the formation of bones, teeth, muscles, nervous system, immunity and other important processes. The lack of vitamins can lead to various disorders in the development and health of the child.

   • Growth and development of bones: Vitamin D plays a critical role in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the healthy growth of bones and teeth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets.
   • Immunity support: Vitamins A, C and E, as well as B vitamins, are involved in maintaining a healthy immune system, helping the body fight infections.
   • The functioning of the nervous system: B vitamins B (B1, B6, B12) are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, transmitting nerve impulses and maintaining cognitive functions.
   • Energy exchange: B vitamins also participate in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, providing the body with energy.
   • Vision: Vitamin A is necessary to maintain healthy vision and prevent night blindness.
   • Antioxidant protection: Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that protect the body cells from damage by free radicals.

2. Classification of vitamins: water -soluble and fat -soluble

   Vitamins are divided into two main groups: water -soluble and fat -soluble. This separation affects their assimilation, storage in the body and the risk of an overdose.

   • Water -soluble vitamins: This group includes group B vitamins (B1, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) and vitamin C. They do not accumulate in the body in significant amounts and are excreted in the urine, so they must be obtained daily with food or additives. An overdose of water -soluble vitamins is rare, but possible, especially with excessive use of additives.
     • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): It is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the functioning of the nervous system.
     • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Participates in the energy exchange and maintenance of the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
     • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): It is necessary for energy exchange and health of the skin.
     • Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): Participates in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
     • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is necessary for the metabolism of amino acids and the functioning of the nervous system.
     • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Participates in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
     • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): It is necessary for the growth and development of cells, especially important during pregnancy.
     • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system.
     • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): A powerful antioxidant is involved in the synthesis of collagen and strengthening immunity.
   • Fat -soluble vitamins: This group includes vitamins A, D, E, and K. They dissolve in fats and accumulate in the body, mainly in the liver and adipose tissue. An overdose of fat -soluble vitamins is more likely than water -soluble, and can lead to toxic effects.
     • Vitamin A (Retinol): It is necessary for vision, growth and development, as well as maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
     • Vitamin D (calciferol): It is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, maintaining the health of bones and teeth.
     • Vitamin E (Tokoferol): A powerful antioxidant protects cells from damage by free radicals.
     • Vitamin K (Phillokhinon): It is necessary for blood coagulation.

3. Signs of vitamin deficiency in children: what to pay attention to

   Recognition of signs of vitamin deficiency in children is crucial for timely measures. Symptoms can vary depending on a specific vitamin and degree of deficiency.

   • Vitamin A: Dry skin, vision of vision in the dark (night blindness), frequent infections.
   • Vitamin D deficiency: Rachite (in young children), delayed teething, bone weakness, muscle cramps.
   • Vitamin Deficit E: It is rarely found, but can manifest itself in the form of neurological disorders and muscle weakness.
   • Vitamin K deficiency: Violation of blood coagulation, increased bleeding.
   • Vitamin C deficiency: Scurvy (rarely found in developed countries), bleeding gums, slow healing of wounds, increased fatigue.
   • B vitamins deficiency:
     • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): Beri-Bury (rarely found), weakness, fatigue, neurological disorders.
     • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, cracks in the corners of the mouth, dermatitis.
     • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Pellagra (rarely found), dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia.
     • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): Anemia, convulsions, dermatitis.
     • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): Anemia, neurological disorders, developmental delay.
   • General signs of vitamin deficiency: Fatigue, irritability, poor appetite, growth and development, frequent infections.

4. Sources of vitamins: food and additives

   The best way to provide the child with the necessary vitamins is a balanced diet that includes a variety of products. However, in some cases, especially with certain states of health or dietary restrictions, vitamin additives may be required.

   • Food sources of vitamins:
     • Vitamin A: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkin, liver, dairy products.
     • Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolk, enriched dairy products.
     • Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables.
     • Vitamin K: Green leaf vegetables (spinach, broccoli, Brussels cabbage).
     • Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, pepper, broccoli, potatoes.
     • B vitamins B: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables.
   • Vitamin additives:
     • Polyvitamins: Contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
     • Separate vitamin additives: Contain only one or more vitamins.
     • Vitamins in liquid form, tablets, jelly sweets: Various forms for the convenience of taking children.

5. Factors affecting the need for vitamins in children

   The need for vitamins in children depends on various factors, including age, weight, health status, diet and lifestyle.

   • Age: The need for vitamins changes with age, reaching a peak during periods of active growth and development.
   • Weight: Children with overweight may require more vitamins, especially fat-soluble, due to their larger volume of tissues.
   • Health status: Some diseases, such as chronic intestinal diseases, may disrupt the absorption of vitamins.
   • Diet: Children who adhere to limited diets (for example, vegetarian or vegan) may need additional sources of certain vitamins.
   • Geographical location: In regions with insufficient sunlight in children, there may be an increased need for vitamin D.
   • Medication: Some drugs can affect the assimilation or metabolism of vitamins.

Part 2: Recommendations of a pediatrician for the use of vitamins in children of different ages

6. Vitamins for newborn and infants (0-12 months)

   In the first months of life, the main source of vitamins for the baby is breast milk or children’s mixture. However, in some cases, an additional introduction of vitamins may be required.

   • Vitamin D: Breast milk, as a rule, does not contain a sufficient amount of vitamin D, so all infants are recommended to give additives of vitamin D at a dose of 400 IU per day, starting from the first days of life. Children on artificial feeding may also need vitamin D additions if they receive less than 1 liter of the enriched mixture per day.
   • Vitamin K: Vitamin K is administered intramuscularly immediately after birth to prevent bleeding associated with vitamin K. deficiency.
   • Vitamin B12: If the mother is a vegetarian or vegan, her breast milk may contain an insufficient amount of vitamin B12. In this case, the child may need to add vitamin B12.
   • Iron: It is recommended to begin the introduction of iron -containing products or iron additives at the age of about 6 months, when iron supplies obtained from the mother are exhausted to children are exhausted.

7. Vitamins for young children (1-3 years old)

   At this age, children begin to eat various foods, but their diet can still be unbalanced. Polyvitamin additives can be useful to provide a sufficient amount of vitamins.

   • Polyvitamins: If the child eats poorly or his diet is limited, polyvitamin additives can help make up for the lack of vitamins and minerals. It is important to choose polyvitamins designed specifically for young children, and observe the recommended dosage.
   • Vitamin D: Continue to give additives of vitamin D at a dose of 600 IU per day, especially in the winter months or if the child is not enough in the sun.
   • Iron: Make sure that the child receives enough iron from food (meat, poultry, fish, legumes, enriched cereals). If necessary, consult your doctor about the appointment of iron additives.

8. Vitamins for preschool children (3-6 years old)

   Preschool children usually eat more diverse than young children, but their need for vitamins is still high.

   • Balanced nutrition: Encourage the child has a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish and legumes.
   • Polyvitamins: If the child eats poorly or his diet is limited, polyvitamin additives can be useful.
   • Vitamin D: Continue to give additives of vitamin D at a dose of 600 IU per day, especially in the winter months or if the child is not enough in the sun.
   • Calcium: Make sure that the child receives enough calcium from dairy products, enriched products or calcium additives.

9. Vitamins for school-age children (6-12 years old)

   At school age, children become more independent in choosing food, and their diet may not always be balanced.

   • Education in the field of healthy eating: Teach the child the importance of healthy nutrition and the choice of healthy products.
   • Polyvitamins: If the child eats poorly or his diet is limited, polyvitamin additives can be useful.
   • Calcium: Make sure that the child receives enough calcium to maintain the health of bones and teeth.
   • Iron: It is especially important for girls during puberty to prevent iron deficiency.

10. Vitamins for teenagers (13-18 years old)

    Teenagers experience a period of rapid growth and development, so their need for vitamins and minerals is especially high.

    • Balanced nutrition: Encourage healthy diet, including a variety of products.
    • Polyvitamins: It can be useful, especially for adolescents who adhere to limited diets or having bad habits (for example, smoking or alcohol use).
    • Calcium: It is important for maintaining bone health.
    • Iron: It is especially important for girls during menstruation.
    • Vitamin D: It is important for the health of bones and immunity.

Part 3: Special situations requiring attention to vitamin status

11. Vitamins for children with chronic diseases

    Children with chronic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, may experience difficulties with the absorption of vitamins and need special vitamin additives.

    • MukoviScidoz: Children with cystic fibrosis often experience a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) due to impaired fat absorption. They need high doses of these vitamins in special forms.
    • Celiacia: Children with celiac disease experience damage to the mucous membrane of the small intestine when consuming gluten, which violates the absorption of vitamins and minerals. They may need additional intake of B vitamins, iron, calcium and vitamin D.
    • Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: These diseases can cause intestinal inflammation and violate the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Children with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may require additional intake of vitamins of group B, vitamin D, calcium, iron and zinc.
    • Diabetes sugar: Children with diabetes may experience a deficiency of vitamin D and B vitamins B. They may require an additional intake of these vitamins.
    • Kidney diseases: Children with kidney diseases may experience a deficiency of vitamin D and B vitamins. They may require special vitamin therapy prescribed by a doctor.

12. Vitamins for children with limited diets (vegetarians, vegans)

    Children who adhere to vegetarian or vegan diets may experience a shortage of certain vitamins and minerals, which are mainly contained in animal products.

    • Vitamin B12: Contained only in animal products. Vegetarians and vegans need to take vitamin B12 additives or use enriched products.
    • Vitamin D: Contained in oily fish and egg yolk. Vegetarians and vegans need to take vitamin D additives or use enriched products.
    • Iron: Iron from plant sources is absorbed worse than iron from animal sources. Vegetarians and vegans need to consume products rich in iron, combined with vitamin C to improve iron absorption.
    • Calcium: Contained in dairy products. Vegetarians and vegans need to consume products rich in calcium (green leafy vegetables, enriched products, tofu) or take calcium additives.
    • Omega-3 fatty acids: Contained in fatty fish. Vegetarians and vegans need to consume foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid (Alk) (flax seeds, walnuts, soy oil) or take additives with Alk, DHA and EPC (obtained from algae).

13. Vitamins for children with food allergies and intolerance

    Children with food allergies and intolerance may experience restrictions on nutrition, which can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals.

    • Milk allergies: Children with allergies to milk may experience a deficiency of calcium and vitamin D. They need to consume products enriched with calcium and vitamin D, or take additives.
    • Egg allergies: Children with allergies to eggs may experience a deficiency of vitamin D and choline. They need to use other products rich in these nutrients, or take additives.
    • Nut allergies: Children with allergies for nuts can experience a deficiency of vitamin E and magnesium. They need to use other products rich in these nutrients, or take additives.
    • Lactose intolerance: Children with lactose intolerance can experience discomfort in the abdomen after eating dairy products. They need to consume lactose dairy products or other sources of calcium and vitamin D.

14. Vitamins for children taking medications

    Some drugs can affect the assimilation or metabolism of vitamins, which can lead to their deficiency.

    • Antibiotics: They can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora and reduce the synthesis of vitamin K and some vitamins of group B.
    • Anticonvulsants: They can reduce vitamin D, folic acid and biotin.
    • Corticosteroids: They can reduce vitamin D and calcium.
    • Metotrexat: It can reduce the level of folic acid.
    • Holestyramin: It can reduce the absorption of fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

15. Vitamins for children living in regions with limited sunlight

    In regions with limited sunlight, children may experience vitamin D, since sunlight is the main source of this vitamin.

    • Vitamin D supplements: Children living in regions with limited sunlight are recommended to give additives of vitamin D at a dose of 600 IU per day, especially in the winter months.
    • Enriched products: Use products enriched with vitamin D, such as milk, juices and cereals.
    • Vitamin D level control: Spended the level of vitamin D in the blood regularly and adjust the dosage of the additives if necessary.

Part 4: Practical Tips for the Selection and Use of Vitamins for Children

16. How to choose vitamin additives for children: read labels

    When choosing vitamin additives for children, it is important to carefully read the labels and pay attention to the following factors:

    • Age: Choose vitamins designed specifically for your child’s age.
    • Composition: Make sure vitamins contain the necessary vitamins and minerals in the recommended doses.
    • Form: Choose the form of vitamins that is convenient for your child (liquid, tablets, jelly sweets).
    • Manufacturer: Choose vitamins from reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.
    • Lack of allergens: Make sure vitamins do not contain allergens if your child has food allergies.
    • Supplements: Avoid vitamins containing artificial dyes, flavors and sweeteners.

17. Dosage of vitamins for children: follow recommendations

    It is important to observe the recommended dosage of vitamins for children in order to avoid overdose and side effects.

    • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking vitamin additives, consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage for your child.
    • Compliance with instructions: Carefully read the instructions on the packaging of vitamins and follow the recommended dosage.
    • Do not exceed the dosage: Do not give the child more vitamins than recommended, even if he eats poorly.
    • Dose separation: If the dosage of vitamins is high, divide it into several tricks during the day.

18. Vitamins safety for children: storage and prevention of overdose

    Vitamins must be stored in a safe place inaccessible to children to prevent random overdose.

    • Storage in an inaccessible place: Keep vitamins in a closed closet or container inaccessible to children.
    • Reading instructions: Carefully read the instructions on the packaging of vitamins and follow the storage recommendations.
    • Information of family members: Warn all family members about where vitamins are stored and how they should be given to the child.
    • Symptoms of overdose: Know the symptoms of an overdose of vitamins (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) and immediately consult a doctor if they appear.

19. Vitamins in natural form: include more fruits and vegetables in the child’s diet

    The best way to provide the child with the necessary vitamins is a balanced diet, including a variety of fruits and vegetables.

    • A variety of fruits and vegetables: Offer the child a variety of fruits and vegetables of different colors so that he receives a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
    • Seasonal products: Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables, as they contain more vitamins and minerals.
    • Fresh products: Give preference to fresh fruits and vegetables, as they contain more vitamins than canned or frozen products.
    • Steaming pair or baking: Prepare fruits and vegetables for steam or bake to save more vitamins.
    • Inclusion in the dishes: Add fruits and vegetables to various dishes, such as cereals, salads, soups and desserts.

20. Consultation with a pediatrician: an individual approach to vitamin support for a child

    It is important to consult a pediatrician before taking vitamin additives in order to get individual recommendations that take into account age, health status and nutritional features of your child.

    • Power rating: Discuss with the pediatrician your child’s diet and determine which vitamins and minerals may not be enough for him.
    • Dosage Definition: Ask the pediatrician to recommend the optimal dosage of vitamins for your child.
    • The choice of vitamins: Ask the pediatrician to recommend suitable vitamin supplements for your child.
    • Health control: Regularly visit the pediatrician to control the health status of your child and adjust vitamin therapy if necessary.

Part 5: Scientific research and the latest trends in the field of vitamins for children

21. Studies on the influence of vitamin D on children’s immunity

    Numerous studies show that vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining immunity in children. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections, asthma and other immune diseases.

    • Vitamin D and respiratory infections: Studies have shown that vitamin D additives can reduce the risk of respiratory infections in children, especially in the winter months.
    • Vitamin D and asthma: Some studies have shown that vitamin D can help improve asthma control in children.
    • Vitamin D action mechanisms: Vitamin D affects the immune system, regulating the activity of immune cells and the production of antimicrobial peptides.

22. The role of group B vitamins in the development of the brain and cognitive functions

    B vitamins are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the development of the brain. B vitamins deficiency can negatively affect cognitive functions, memory and mood.

    • Vitamin B12 and brain development: Vitamin B12 is necessary for the formation of myelin, which protects the nerve fibers and provides the rapid transmission of nerve impulses. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to developmental delay and cognitive disorders.
    • Folic acid and cognitive functions: Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which play an important role in the development of the brain. Folic acid deficiency can negatively affect cognitive functions, memory and mood.
    • Tiamine and memory: Tiamine is necessary for glucose metabolism, which is the main source of energy for the brain. Tiamine deficiency can lead to memory disorders and concentration.

23. Studies on the effect of vitamin C on the prevention and treatment of colds

    Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and plays an important role in maintaining immunity. Many believe that vitamin C can help prevent and treat a cold.

    • Reducing the duration of the cold: Some studies have shown that vitamin C intake can slightly reduce the duration of the cold and reduce the severity of the symptoms.
    • Creation prevention: Vitamin C can reduce the risk of colds in people undergoing intensive physical exertion or living in cold conditions.
    • Vitamin C action mechanisms: Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, stimulating the activity of immune cells and the production of antibodies.

24. New forms of vitamins for children: liposomal and micellar technologies

    Modern technologies allow you to create new forms of vitamins that are better absorbed by the body. Liposomal and micellar technologies are used to increase the bioavailability of vitamins.

    • Liposomal vitamins: Liposomes are microscopic spheres consisting of lipids that surround vitamin and protect it from destruction in the gastrointestinal tract. Liposomal vitamins are better absorbed, since liposomes easily penetrate through cell membranes.
    • Micellar vitamins: Micelles are microscopic units of molecules that help dissolve fat -soluble vitamins in water. Micellar vitamins are better absorbed, as they are more easily dissolved in water and absorbed in the intestines.

25. Personalized approach to vitamin support: Genetic testing

    Genetic testing allows you to determine the individual need for vitamins and minerals, taking into account the genetic characteristics of a person.

    • Genes and metabolism of vitamins: Some genes affect the metabolism of vitamins and minerals. For example, genes encoding enzymes involved in folic acid metabolism can affect the need for this vitamin.
    • Genetic testing and nutrition recommendations: Genetic testing can help determine which vitamins and minerals must be taken in larger quantities in order to compensate for genetic characteristics.
    • The future of personalized vitamin support: In the future, genetic testing can become the basis for personalized vitamin support, taking into account the individual needs of each child.

Part 6: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about vitamins for children

26. Do I need to give vitamins to a healthy child who eats well?

    Not always. If the child eats varied and balanced, receiving enough fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish and legumes, then he most likely does not need additional vitamin additives. However, in some cases, for example, in the winter months or with insufficient stay in the sun, an additional intake of vitamin D may be required. Consult a doctor to determine if your child needs vitamins.

27. What vitamins are the athletes necessary for children?

    Children who are actively involved in sports may need more vitamins and minerals than children leading a sedentary lifestyle. Important vitamins and minerals for athletes are:

    • B vitamins B: It is necessary for energy exchange and functioning of the nervous system.
    • Vitamin D: It is necessary for the health of bones and muscles.
    • Calcium: It is necessary for the health of bones.
    • Iron: It is necessary to transfer oxygen to the muscles.
    • Antioxidants (vitamins C and E): Protect cells from damage to free radicals formed during physical exertion.

    Consult a doctor or sports nutritionist to determine what vitamins and minerals to your sportsman are necessary.

28. What time of day is it better to give a child vitamins?

    The time of taking vitamins depends on the type of vitamin.

    • Water -soluble vitamins (B vitamins B and vitamin C): It is better to take on an empty stomach in the morning, as they are better absorbed on an empty stomach.
    • Fatty vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K): It is better to take fats containing fats, as they are better absorbed in the presence of fats.

    Follow the instructions on the packaging of vitamins and the doctor’s recommendations.

29. How to give vitamins in the form of chewing tablets or jelly sweets?

    Chewing tablets and jelly sweets are a convenient form of vitamins for children, but they should be given with caution to avoid overdose and problems with teeth.

    • Observe the dosage: Give your child only a recommended number of tablets or sweets.
    • Control the reception: Make sure that the child does not eat more vitamins than expected.
    • Brush your teeth: After taking chewing tablets or jelly sweets, rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth to prevent the development of caries.
    • Keep in an inaccessible place: Keep vitamins in no way for children.

30. Is it possible to give a child to vitamins if he takes medicine?

    Before giving a child vitamins, if he takes any medicine, you need to consult a doctor. Some vitamins can interact with drugs, reducing their effectiveness or causing side effects. For example, vitamin K can affect the action of anticoagulants, and vitamin C can enhance the effect of some antibiotics.

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