Vitamins for children: how to choose the best

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Vitamins for children: how to choose the best

I. Understanding the role of vitamins in children’s development

A. The need for vitamins for growth and development.

1. Construction blocks: Vitamins and minerals act as essential building blocks for bones, muscles, tissues and organs. Their insufficient intake can slow down or disrupt growth and development processes.

2. Metabolism and energy: B vitamins play a key role in metabolism, converting food into energy necessary for activity, training and growth. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to fatigue, irritability and problems with concentration.

3. Immune system: Vitamins C, D, A and E are powerful antioxidants and support the immune system, protecting the body from infections and diseases. Their deficiency increases the susceptibility to colds, influenza and other diseases.

4. Cognitive functions: Vitamins of group B (especially B12 and folic acid), iron and omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of the brain, cognitive functions, memory and concentration of attention. The lack of these substances can affect school performance and general intellectual development.

5. Health of bones and teeth: Vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus are necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, and the lack of calcium to problems with teeth and increased risk of fractures in the future.

B. The consequences of a deficiency of vitamins.

1. Rachitis (Vitamin D deficiency): Slow growth, bone deformation (especially legs), muscle weakness, teething delay.

2. BEY-BERI (deficiency of vitamin B1): Damage to the nervous system, heart failure, swelling. It is rare, but can occur with an unbalanced diet.

3. Scurvy (deficiency of vitamin C): Bleeding gums, teeth loss, weakness, slow healing of wounds, tendency to hemorrhages.

4. Pellagra (vitamin B3 deficiency): Dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia (three “d”). It is rare, but can occur with insufficient use of niacin.

5. Anemia (deficiency of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid): Pallor of the skin, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, developmental delay.

6. Visual violation (vitamin A deficiency): Dry eyes, chicken blindness (visual impairment at dusk), increased susceptibility to infections.

7. Delay of growth and development: The general deficiency of vitamins and minerals can lead to slow growth, problems with the training and development of cognitive functions.

C. The risks of an overdose of vitamins (hypervitaminosis).

1. Vitamin A: Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hair loss, dry skin, liver damage. In severe cases, it can lead to an increase in intracranial pressure.

2. Vitamin D: Nausea, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite, increased thirst, frequent urination, deposition of calcium in soft tissues, kidney damage.

3. Vitamin E: Rarely causes serious side effects, but in high doses can increase the risk of bleeding, especially with the simultaneous use of anticoagulants.

4. Vitamin C: Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, increased risk of kidney stones.

5. B vitamins B: As a rule, they are well tolerated, but in high doses they can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and neurological symptoms.

II. Determination of the child’s needs for vitamins.

A. Age -related features.

1. Infants (0-12 months):

   • Breast milk: It is the best source of nutrition for babies. Contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals, with the exception of vitamin D (additional reception is recommended).
   • Artificial feeding: Most children’s mixtures are enriched with vitamins and minerals, so additional intake of vitamins may not be needed, but it is necessary to consult a pediatrician.
   • Vitamin D: It is recommended for all babies on breastfeeding or receiving less than 1 liter of enriched mixture per day.
   • Vitamin K: It is usually introduced by newborn in the hospital to prevent bleeding.
   • Iron: It may be required if the baby is breastfeeding and does not receive enough iron from food after 6 months.

2. Children from 1 to 3 years (early age):

   • Full nutrition: The main emphasis is on a balanced diet with a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and dairy products.
   • Vitamin D: Continues to be important for the health of bones and the immune system.
   • Multivitamins: It can be useful if the child eats poorly, selective in food or has chronic diseases.

3. Children from 4 to 12 years old (school age):

   • Active growth and development: The need for vitamins and minerals increases due to active growth and development.
   • Balanced nutrition: It is important to provide a balanced diet with a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and dairy products.
   • Vitamin D: It is especially important for the health of bones and the immune system, especially in the winter months.
   • Iron: It is important for the prevention of anemia, especially in girls during puberty.
   • Multivitamins: It can be useful if the child eats poorly, selective in food, plays sports or has chronic diseases.

4. Teenagers (13-18 years old):

   • Perthetic period: The period of intensive growth and hormonal changes, requiring increased consumption of vitamins and minerals.
   • Balanced nutrition: It is important to provide a balanced diet with a sufficient amount of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and dairy products.
   • Calcium: It is important for bone health, especially during active growth.
   • Iron: It is important for the prevention of anemia, especially in girls during menstruation.
   • Vitamin D: It is important for the health of bones and the immune system.
   • Multivitamins: It can be useful if the teenager eats poorly, fond of diets, plays sports or has chronic diseases.

B. Risk factors for vitamins deficiency.

1. Unstable nutrition: Limited consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and other healthy products. Passion for fast food and semi-finished products.

2. Food allergies and intolerance: The exclusion from the diet of entire groups of products (for example, dairy products for allergies to milk) can lead to a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals.

3. Vegetarianism and veganism: It is necessary to carefully plan the diet in order to ensure sufficient intake of vitamin B12, iron, calcium and vitamin D.

4. Chronic diseases: Some diseases (for example, intestinal diseases, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis) can disrupt the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

5. Taking drugs: Some drugs may affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

6. Nedness: Premature children have an increased need for vitamins and minerals.

7. Intensive sports: Athletes need an increased amount of vitamins and minerals to maintain energy and recovery after training.

8. Accommodation in regions with insufficient sunlight: Increases the risk of vitamin D.

C. Consultation with a pediatrician.

1. Evaluation of the diet: The pediatrician can evaluate the diet of the child and identify possible drawbacks.

2. Risk factors definition: The pediatrician can identify risk factors for deficiency of vitamins and minerals.

3. Analysis purpose: If necessary, the pediatrician can prescribe blood tests to determine the level of vitamins and minerals.

4. Recommendations for taking vitamins: The pediatrician can give individual recommendations for taking vitamins and minerals, taking into account the age, state of health and nutritional characteristics of the child.

III. Choosing vitamin preparations: key criteria.

A. The form of release of vitamins.

1. Liquid vitamins (drops, syrups):

   • Advantages: It is easy to dose, it is convenient to give young children, they are well absorbed.
   • Flaws: May contain sugar, dyes and flavorings, a short shelf life after opening.

2. Chewing tablets (pastries, marmalade):

   • Advantages: A pleasant taste, it is easy to give children, it is convenient to take with you.
   • Flaws: They may contain sugar, dyes and flavors, an overdose risk with excessive use, can stick to the teeth and promote the development of caries.

3. Tablets and capsules:

   • Advantages: The exact dosage, a long shelf life, usually does not contain sugar, dyes and flavorings.
   • Flaws: It is difficult to swallow children, they can have an unpleasant taste or smell.

4. Powders:

   • Advantages: It is easy to mix with food or drinks, it is convenient to dose.
   • Flaws: They can have an unpleasant taste or smell, can contain additives.

B. The composition of the vitamin complex.

1. Multivitamins: They contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals, suitable for the prevention of deficiency of vitamins and minerals with an unbalanced diet.

2. Monopasses: They contain only one vitamin or mineral, are prescribed if a deficiency of a particular substance is detected.

3. Optimal dosages: The dosages of vitamins and minerals must comply with the age needs of the child and the recommendations of the doctor. Preparations with high dosages should be avoided, as this can lead to hypervitaminosis.

4. Natural ingredients: It is preferable to choose vitamin preparations containing natural ingredients, such as fruit and vegetable extracts.

5. Lack of artificial additives: Preparations containing artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives and sweeteners should be avoided.

C. Manufacturer and certification.

1. Reliable manufacturers: Choose vitamin preparations from well -known and trusted manufacturers with a good reputation in the market.

2. Quality certification: Make sure the vitamin preparation is certified by the appropriate organs (for example, GMP, FDA).

3. Consumer reviews: Study the reviews of other consumers about the vitamin preparation to learn about its effectiveness and safety.

D. Accounting for the individual characteristics of the child.

1. Allergies and intolerance: In the presence of allergies or intolerance to certain substances, it is necessary to choose vitamin preparations that do not contain these substances.

2. Chronic diseases: In the presence of chronic diseases, it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking vitamins.

3. Taking drugs: It is necessary to take into account the interaction of vitamins with other drugs that the child takes.

IV. Review of the main vitamins and minerals for children.

A. Vitamin D.

1. Functions: Participates in the regulation of the exchange of calcium and phosphorus, helps to strengthen bones and teeth, and supports the immune system.

2. Sources: Sunlight, fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolk, enriched products (milk, flakes).

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age and risk factors of deficiency. It is usually recommended 400-600 IU per day for children under 1 year and 600-1000 IU per day for children over 1 year old.

4. Signs of deficiency: Rachite (in infants), bone weakness, frequent fractures, increased susceptibility to infections.

B. Vitamin A.

1. Functions: It is important for vision, growth and development, immune system and skin health.

2. Sources: Animal products (liver, egg yolk, dairy products), orange and dark green vegetables and fruits (carrots, pumpkin, spinach).

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age. An overdose should be avoided, since vitamin A is fat -soluble and can accumulate in the body.

4. Signs of deficiency: Dry eyes, chicken blindness, increased susceptibility to infections, growth retardation.

C. Vitamin C.

1. Functions: A powerful antioxidant supports the immune system, promotes wound healing, and participates in the formation of collagen.

2. Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), vegetables (bell pepper, broccoli, tomatoes).

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age. Vitamin C is water -soluble and does not accumulate in the body, so an overdose is unlikely.

4. Signs of deficiency: Bleeding gums, slow healing of wounds, weakness, fatigue.

D. B vitamins B.

1. Functions: Participate in metabolism, energy metabolism, the operation of the nervous system and the formation of blood cells.

2. Sources: A variety of foods, including meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes, vegetables and fruits.

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age and specific vitamin of group B.

4. Signs of deficiency: Fatigue, irritability, concentration problems, anemia, skin rashes, neurological symptoms.

E. Iron.

1. Functions: It is important for the formation of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen in the blood. It is necessary for the growth and development of the brain.

2. Sources: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables, enriched cereals.

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on age and gender. Iron deficiency is especially common in young children and teenage girls.

4. Signs of deficiency: Pallor of the skin, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, developmental delay.

F. Calcium.

1. Functions: It is important for the formation of strong bones and teeth, is involved in the work of muscles and the nervous system.

2. Sources: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dark green leafy vegetables, enriched products (tofu, orange juice).

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age.

4. Signs of deficiency: Bone weakness, increased risk of fractures, problems with teeth.

G. Omega-3 fatty acids.

1. Functions: Important for the development of the brain, vision and the immune system.

2. Sources: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), linen seeds, walnuts, enriched products (eggs, yogurt).

3. Recommended dosage: Depends on the age.

4. Signs of deficiency: Problems with concentration, visual impairment, dry skin.

V. Practical advice on taking vitamins.

A. Follow the instructions and recommendations of the doctor.

1. Carefully read the instructions for the use of vitamin preparations and strictly follow the recommended dosages.
2. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, even if the child asks for more.
3. Consult a doctor before taking vitamins, especially if the child has chronic diseases or takes other drugs.

B. Give vitamins at the same time every day.

1. Choose a convenient time to receive vitamins and try to give them to the child at the same time every day to form a habit.
2. Bind the intake of vitamins to a certain action (for example, after breakfast or before bedtime).

C. Mix liquid vitamins with food or drinks.

1. If the child refuses to take liquid vitamins in its pure form, try mixing them with a small amount of food or drink (for example, with juice, yogurt or mashed potatoes).
2. Make sure that the child completely ate or drank the entire portion to get the necessary dose of vitamins.

D. Keep vitamins in no way for children.

1. Vitamins should be stored in an inaccessible place for children to avoid random overdose.
2. Keep vitamins in the original packaging, in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture.
3. Do not store vitamins in the bathroom or in the kitchen, where high humidity and temperature.

E. Pay attention to the expiration dates.

1. Do not give the child vitamins with an expired shelf life.
2. Regularly check the shelf life of vitamin preparations and dispose of the expired.

F. Watch the reaction of the child to vitamins.

1. After taking vitamins, observe the reaction of the child.
2. When any side effects appear (for example, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash) stop taking vitamins and consult a doctor.

G. Do not consider vitamins as a replacement for good nutrition.

1. Vitamins are an addition to a balanced diet, and not its replacement.
2. The main emphasis should be placed on providing a child with a full and diverse diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and dairy products.

H. Remember the importance of regular examinations at the doctor.

1. Regular examinations at the doctor allow you to control the state of health of the child and timely identify possible problems, including a deficiency of vitamins and minerals.
2. The doctor can give individual recommendations for taking vitamins and minerals, taking into account the age, health status and characteristics of the child’s nutrition.

This article provides comprehensive information about vitamins for children, covering various aspects from understanding their role to practical tips for administration. Remember to consult with a pediatrician for personalized advice.