Polyvitamins for children: when it is worth giving

Polyvitamins for children: when it is worth giving

The role of vitamins in the development of the child

Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for the normal growth, development and functioning of the body. They play a key role in various biochemical processes, including metabolism, immune function and bone growth. In children whose body is actively developing, the need for vitamins is especially high. Vitamin deficiency can lead to developmental delay, impairment of immunity and other health problems.

Basic vitamins and their functions

• Vitamin A (Retinol): It is necessary for vision, cell growth, immune function and skin health. Participates in the synthesis of rhodopsin, visual pigment, providing adaptation to darkness. Promotes the normal functioning of the mucous membranes that protect the body from infections. It is important for differentiation of cells, a process in which immature cells become specialized.

• B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): This group of vitamins plays an important role in the metabolism of energy, the functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells.

  • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): It is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, energy production and the normal function of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as in maintaining the health of the skin and vision.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): It is important for the metabolism of energy, skin health and the normal function of the nervous system.
  • Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as in the production of hormones.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is necessary for the metabolism of amino acids, the production of neurotransmitters and the formation of red blood cells.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as in maintaining the health of the skin, hair and nails.
  • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): It is important for dividing cells, the formation of red blood cells and preventing defects in the nervous tube in the fetus during pregnancy.
  • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, the functioning of the nervous system and the synthesis of DNA.

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): The antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, promotes the healing of wounds and the absorption of iron. Participates in the synthesis of collagen necessary for the health of the skin, bones and blood vessels. Protects cells from damage by free radicals.

• Vitamin D (calciferol): It is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which is important for the health of bones and teeth. It regulates the level of calcium in the blood necessary for the normal function of muscles and the nervous system. Supports immune function.

• Vitamin E (Tokoferol): Antioxidant, protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Supports immune function and skin health. Participates in the process of blood coagulation.

• Vitamin K (Phillokhinon): It is necessary for coagulation of blood and bone health. Activates blood coagulation factors, preventing bleeding. Helps to embed calcium into bone tissue.

Minerals important for the children’s body

In addition to vitamins, children need minerals, such as calcium, iron, zinc and iodine.

• Calcium: It is necessary for the health of bones and teeth, as well as for the normal function of muscles and nervous system.
• Iron: It is important for the formation of red blood cells that transfer oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia.
• Zinc: Participates in the immune function, growth and development of cells, as well as wound healing.
• Iodine: It is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and growth.

When is it worth giving multivitamins to children?

Ideally, children should receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet. However, in some cases, the appointment of polyvitamins can be justified. It is important to remember that the decision to take polyvitamins should be made after consulting with a pediatrician.

Situations when multivitamins can be useful:

• Unstable nutrition: If the child is selective in food and does not receive enough vitamins and minerals from food. For example, if a child refuses vegetables, fruits, meat or dairy products.
• Limited diet: If the child adheres to a vegetarian or vegan diet, he may need additional intake of vitamin B12, iron, zinc and calcium.
• Diseases affecting the absorption of nutrients: Some diseases, such as celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease, may prevent the absorption of vitamins and minerals.
• Taking certain drugs: Some drugs may affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora necessary for the synthesis of some vitamins.
• Expense growth periods: During growth jumps, the need for vitamins and minerals increases.
• After the diseases: During the recovery period after the disease, the body needs additional nutrients for recovery.
• Accommodation in regions with a low level of sunlight: In regions with limited sunlight, children may need an additional technique of vitamin D.
• Premature children: Premature children often have a deficiency of vitamins and minerals and need special additives.
• Children with chronic diseases: Children with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease may need additional vitamins and minerals.
• Children with developmental delay: Children with developmental delay may need additional vitamins and minerals to maintain growth and development.
• Children attending kindergartens and schools: In kindergartens and schools, children are at a greater risk of infectious infectious diseases. Additional intake of vitamins can help strengthen immunity.

Forms of polyvitamins for children

Polyvitamins for children are produced in various forms:

• Liquid multivitamins: Suitable for babies and young children who cannot swallow pills.
• Chewing tablets: Convenient for older children who can chew tablets.
• Capsules: Suitable for children who can swallow capsules.
• Pasters: They have a pleasant taste and are convenient to use.
• Powders: You can add to food or drinks.

How to choose multivitamins for children?

When choosing polyvitamins for children, the following factors should be taken into account:

• Child’s age: Polyvitamins should be intended for a certain age, since the need for vitamins and minerals changes with age.
• Composition: Carefully study the composition of polyvitamins. They should contain the necessary vitamins and minerals in dosages corresponding to the age of the child.
• Form: Choose the form of multivitamins that is convenient for your child.
• Taste: Choose polyvitamins with a pleasant taste so that the child willingly accept them.
• Manufacturer: Give preference to multivitamins from famous and reliable manufacturers.
• Availability of quality certificates: Make sure that polyvitamins have quality certificates confirming their safety and effectiveness.
• Lack of artificial dyes and flavors: Polyvitamins should be without artificial dyes and flavorings that can cause allergic reactions.
• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking polyvitamins, consult a pediatrician to make sure that they need your child and are safe for him.

Dosage of polyvitamins

The dosage of polyvitamins should comply with the recommendations of the manufacturer and the age of the child. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as this can lead to an overdose of vitamins.

An overdose of vitamins

An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous to the health of the child. Symptoms of an overdose of vitamins depend on which vitamin was accepted in excess.

• Overdose by vitamin A: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, hair loss, dry skin and liver damage.
• Overdose of group B vitamins: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness and nervous disorders.
• Overdose by vitamin C: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Overdose by vitamin D: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, fatigue, headache and kidney damage.
• Overdose of vitamin E: It can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness and increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Overdose of vitamin K: It can lead to jaundice and liver damage.

If you suspect an overdose of vitamins, you must immediately consult a doctor.

Side effects of polyvitamins

In most cases, multivitamins are well tolerated by children. However, in some cases, side effects can occur, such as:

• Allergic reactions: Allergies to the components of polyvitamins.
• Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.
• Change of urine color: Some vitamins can change the color of urine.

If the child has any side effects after taking polyvitamins, it is necessary to stop taking them and consult a doctor.

Interaction of polyvitamins with drugs

Polyvitamins can interact with some drugs. Therefore, before taking polyvitamins, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs that the child takes.

Storage of polyvitamins

Polyvitamins should be stored in an inaccessible place for children, in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight.

Natural sources of vitamins

The best way to provide the child with the necessary vitamins and minerals is a balanced diet, including:

• Fruits and vegetables: We are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
• Grain products: Sources of group B vitamins and fiber.
• Dairy products: Rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Meat, poultry and fish: Sources of protein, iron and vitamins of group V.
• Legumes: Sources of protein, iron and fiber.
• Nuts and seeds: Sources of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals.

Meding recommendations for children of different ages

• Infants (0-6 months): Breast milk or adapted milk mixture is the best source of nutrition for babies at this age.
• Infants (6-12 months): At this age, you can begin to introduce complementary foods by offering a child a variety of products, such as vegetables, fruits, cereals and meat.
• Children (1-3 years old): Children of this age should receive a variety of food, including fruits, vegetables, grain products, dairy products and protein sources.
• Children (4-10 years old): Children of this age should continue to eat varied and balanced, including all groups of products.
• Teenagers (11-18 years old): Teenagers need sufficient nutrients to maintain growth and development. It is important to provide them with a balanced diet and avoid unhealthy snacks.

Tips for parents to provide children with the necessary vitamins and minerals

• Plan a balanced meal: Include a variety of products from all groups in the child’s diet.
• Offer fruits and vegetables as snacks: This will help provide the child with the necessary vitamins and minerals.
• Limit the consumption of sweet drinks and processed products: These products often contain little nutrients and many calories.
• Encourage children to an active lifestyle: Physical activity is important for health and helps to absorb nutrients.
• Visit the pediatrician regularly: The doctor will be able to evaluate the state of health of the child and give recommendations on the nutrition and intake of polyvitamins, if necessary.
• Be an example for your child: If you yourself eat great and lead an active lifestyle, the child will be more inclined to follow your example.
• Attract children to cooking: This will help them find out about healthy diet and learn how to cook healthy dishes.
• Make food fun and interesting: Use bright colors and unusual shapes to attract the child’s attention to food.
• Do not make the child have what he does not like: Offer different products and let your child choose what he likes.
• Be patient: Installing healthy eating habits requires time and patience.

Polyvitamins and immunity

Some vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining immune function. These include vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc and selenium. An additional intake of these vitamins and minerals can help strengthen the child’s immunity and reduce the risk of infectious infectious diseases. However, it is important to remember that multivitamins are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.

Polyvitamins and brain development

Some vitamins and minerals are necessary for the normal development of the brain. These include B vitamins, iron, iodine and zinc. The deficiency of these nutrients can lead to a delay in brain development and learning problems.

Polyvitamins and bone health

Vitamin D and calcium are necessary for the health of bones and teeth. The deficiency of these nutrients can lead to rickets and other problems with bones.

Polyvitamins and energy

B vitamins play an important role in the metabolism of energy. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to fatigue and weakness.

Polyvitamins and sleep

Some vitamins and minerals can affect sleep. For example, magnesium deficiency can lead to insomnia.

Polyvitamins and mood

Some vitamins and minerals can affect mood. For example, vitamin D deficiency can lead to depression.

Polyvitamins and appetite

Some vitamins and minerals can affect appetite. For example, zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite.

Polyvitamins and skin, hair, nails

Some vitamins and minerals are necessary for the health of the skin, hair and nails. These include vitamins A, C, E, BIOTIN and Zinc.

Polyvitamins and vision

Vitamin A is necessary for vision. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to visual impairment, especially in the dark.

Polyvitamins and digestion

Some vitamins and minerals play an important role in digestion. For example, group B vitamins are necessary for digestion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Polyvitamins and sports

Children involved in sports need more nutrients than children who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Polyvitamins can help them get the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Alternatives of polyvitamins

Instead of multivitamins, you can use enriched food, such as cereals, juices and dairy products. However, it is important to carefully study the composition of the enriched products in order to make sure that they contain the necessary vitamins and minerals in sufficient quantities.

Conclusion

Polyvitamins can be useful for children in certain situations, but they should not replace a balanced diet. Before taking polyvitamins, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician. The best way to provide the child with the necessary vitamins and minerals is a balanced diet that includes a variety of products from all groups. A healthy lifestyle, including physical activity and enough sleep, is also important for the health and development of the child. Remember that proper nutrition and healthy habits laid down in childhood will help your child grow up healthy and strong.