Vitamins for children: how to choose the best

Content

1. Why are vitamins important for children?

   • The role of vitamins in growth and development.
   • The consequences of a deficiency of vitamins.
   • Special needs for vitamins at different ages.

2. When do children need vitamins?

   • Recommendations of pediatricians.
   • Factors affecting the need for vitamins (diet, disease, lifestyle).
   • Risk groups in deficiency of vitamins.

3. The main vitamins for children and their functions.

   • Vitamin A (retinol): vision, immunity, growth.
   • B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): metabolism, nervous system, blood formation.
   • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): immunity, antioxidant, assimilation of iron.
   • Vitamin D (calciferol): bones, teeth, immunity.
   • Vitamin E (tocopherol): antioxidant, leather, muscles.
   • Vitamin K (phyllokhinon): blood coagulation, bones.

4. Important minerals for children and their functions.

   • Calcium: bones, teeth, muscles, nervous system.
   • Iron: hematopoiesis, oxygen transfer, brain development.
   • Zinc: immunity, growth, wound healing.
   • Iodine: thyroid gland, brain development.
   • Magnesium: muscles, nervous system, bones.

5. Types of vitamin complexes for children.

   • Multivitamins: advantages and disadvantages.
   • Monopasses: In what cases are necessary.
   • Chewing tablets, marmalade vitamins, drops, syrups: which format to choose?
   • Vitamins for newborn and infants.
   • Vitamins for preschoolers.
   • Vitamins for schoolchildren and adolescents.

6. The composition of vitamin complexes: what to pay attention to.

   • Dosage of vitamins and minerals: recommendations by age.
   • Excipients: dyes, flavors, preservatives.
   • Allergens: lactose, gluten, soy.
   • Sahara or sweetening.
   • Quality certification and safety.

7. How to choose the right vitamins for a child.

   • Consultation with a pediatrician.
   • Accounting for the age and needs of the child.
   • Study of composition and dosage.
   • The choice of a reliable manufacturer.
   • Reviews of other parents.

8. How to give vitamins to children.

   • Dosage and reception mode.
   • A combination of food.
   • How to give vitamins to children who refuse to drink them.
   • Storage of vitamins.

9. An overdose of vitamins: symptoms and consequences.

   • Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin A.
   • Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin D.
   • Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin C.
   • Other vitamins: risk of overdose.
   • First aid for an overdose of vitamins.

10. Sources of vitamins in food.

    • Fruits and vegetables.
    • Meat, fish, eggs.
    • Dairy products.
    • Cereals and legumes.
    • Recipes of dishes rich in vitamins.

11. The influence of vitamins on the immunity of the child.

    • Vitamin C and immunity.
    • Vitamin D and immunity.
    • Vitamin A and immunity.
    • Zinc and immunity.
    • Other vitamins and minerals that support immunity.

12. Vitamins for children with special needs.

    • Vitamins for children with allergies.
    • Vitamins for children with gastrointestinal diseases.
    • Vitamins for Vegetarian children and vegans.
    • Vitamins for often sick children.
    • Vitamins for children with developmental delay.

13. Vitamins to improve appetite in children.

    • B vitamins and appetite.
    • Zinc and appetite.
    • Other factors affecting the appetite.
    • How to improve the child’s appetite naturally.

14. Vitamins for improving memory and concentration in children.

    • Group B vitamins and brain function.
    • Omega-3 fatty acids and brain function.
    • Iron and brain work.
    • Other nutrients important for cognitive functions.

15. Myths and misconceptions about vitamins for children.

    • “All children need vitamins.”
    • “Vitamins can replace good nutrition.”
    • “The more vitamins, the better.”
    • “Vitamins are a medicine.”

16. Review of popular brands of vitamins for children.

    • Brand characteristic.
    • Comparison of compositions and prices.
    • Reviews of experts and consumers.

17. Legal aspects of choosing and using vitamins for children.

    • Legislation on vitamins and dietary supplements.
    • Consumer rights.
    • Responsibility of manufacturers.

18. The future of vitamins for children: new research and development.

    • Personalized vitamins.
    • New forms of release.
    • Studies on the influence of vitamins on children’s health.

The detailed content of each section:

1. Why are vitamins important for children?

• The role of vitamins in growth and development: Vitamins and minerals play a critical role in ensuring the normal growth and development of the child’s body. They are necessary for the formation of bones, muscles, skin, blood and internal organs. Vitamins are involved in metabolic processes, providing energy to all cells of the body. Without a sufficient amount of vitamins, the full development of the physical and cognitive abilities of the child is impossible. For example, vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is a building material for bones and teeth. B vitamins are involved in the production of energy and maintaining the nervous system. Vitamin A is important for vision, growth and immunity. It is important to understand that the need for vitamins changes with age, so it is necessary to take into account age -related features when choosing vitamin additives.

• The consequences of vitamin deficiency: Vitamin deficiency can lead to serious health problems. The disadvantage of vitamin D can cause rickets, a disease in which the bones become soft and deformed. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which is characterized by fatigue, pallor of the skin and a decrease in immunity. The disadvantage of vitamin C can cause scurvy, a disease that is characterized by bleeding gums, weakness and slow healing of wounds. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision problems, dry skin and increased susceptibility to infections. It is important to note that the deficiency of vitamins may not appear immediately, but gradually, therefore it is important to pay attention to any changes in the behavior and state of health of the child. Early identification and elimination of vitamin deficiency will help prevent serious complications.

• Special needs for vitamins at different ages: The need for vitamins is changing with age. Newborn and infants need a sufficient amount of vitamin D, which is necessary for the growth of bones and teeth. Breastfeeding children often need an additional intake of vitamin D, since its content in breast milk may be insufficient. Preschoolers and schoolchildren need a sufficient number of vitamins of group B, vitamin C and vitamin A to maintain immunity, energy and normal growth. Teenagers need sufficient calcium, iron and vitamin D to maintain bone, blood and hormonal balance. During active growth and puberty, the need for vitamins and minerals increases significantly. It is important to consider the individual characteristics of the child, such as weight, growth, level of physical activity and the presence of chronic diseases, when determining the need for vitamins.

2. When do children need vitamins?

• Pediatrician recommendations: Pediatricians usually recommend giving vitamins to children in certain situations, such as insufficient food consumption, a limited diet, the presence of chronic diseases or taking drugs that can affect the absorption of vitamins. In some cases, pediatricians can recommend the preventive technique of vitamin D in the winter months, when the production of vitamin D in the skin is reduced under the influence of sunlight. It is important to consult a pediatrician before taking vitamin additives in order to determine the necessary dosage and choose a suitable drug. The pediatrician can also assess the state of health of the child and identify possible deficits of vitamins and minerals. Regular consultations with a pediatrician will help to ensure the optimal health and development of the child.

• Factors affecting the need for vitamins (diet, disease, lifestyle): Several factors can affect the child’s need for vitamins. An unbalanced diet, lack of fresh fruits and vegetables, excessive consumption of processed products and fast food can lead to a deficiency of vitamins. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, can violate the absorption of vitamins from food. Taking some drugs such as antibiotics can affect the intestinal microflora and reduce the production of vitamins. An active lifestyle, sports and increased physical activity can increase the need for vitamins and minerals. It is important to consider all these factors when assessing the child’s need for vitamins and choosing vitamin additives.

• Risk groups in deficiency of vitamins: Certain groups of children are at risk of vitamins deficiency. These include:

  • Children on breastfeeding (additional intake of vitamin D is needed).
  • Children with a limited diet (vegetarians, vegans).
  • Children with chronic diseases (cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease).
  • Children taking certain drugs.
  • Children with low socio-economic status (limited access to full nutrition).
  • Premature children (additional reception of vitamins and minerals is needed). It is important to carefully monitor the nutrition and health of children in risk groups and, if necessary, consult a doctor to consult and prescribe vitamin additives.

3. The main vitamins for children and their functions.

• Vitamin A (retinol): vision, immunity, growth: Vitamin A plays an important role in maintaining visual health, especially in conditions of low illumination. It is also necessary for the normal functioning of the immune system, helping the body fight infections. Vitamin A is involved in the processes of growth and development, supporting the health of the skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision problems, dry skin, increased susceptibility to infections and growth retardation. The recommended daily dose of vitamin A varies for children depending on age. It is important to get a sufficient amount of vitamin A from food, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, liver and eggs.

• B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): metabolism, nervous system, hematopoiesis: B vitamins participate in numerous metabolic processes, converting food into energy. They are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, supporting the health of nerve cells and the transmission of nerve impulses. B vitamins also participate in hematopoietic, helping to produce red blood cells. B vitamins deficiency can lead to fatigue, irritability, digestive problems, nervous disorders and anemia. Each B vitamin performs its specific functions, so it is important to get a sufficient number of all vitamins of this group. The recommended daily dose of B vitamins varies depending on age. B vitamins are found in various foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes and green leafy vegetables.

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): immunity, antioxidant, assimilation of iron: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body cells from damage by free radicals. It plays an important role in maintaining the immune system, stimulating the production of white blood cells and increasing their activity. Vitamin C is also necessary for the absorption of iron from food, which is important for the prevention of anemia. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, a disease that is characterized by bleeding gums, weakness and slow healing of wounds. The recommended daily dose of vitamin C for children varies depending on age. Vitamin C is contained in a large number of fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, bell pepper, broccoli and spinach.

• Vitamin D (calciferol): bones, teeth, immunity: Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is a building material for bones and teeth. He plays an important role in maintaining bone health and the prevention of rickets in children. Vitamin D also affects the immune system, helping the body fight infections. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, osteomination (softening of bones) and increased susceptibility to infections. The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for children varies depending on age. Vitamin D is produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight, but in the winter months and in regions with insufficient sunlight it may require additional intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D is also contained in some foods, such as oily fish, egg yolks and enriched products.

• Vitamin E (tocopherol): antioxidant, leather, muscles: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body cells from damage by free radicals. It plays an important role in maintaining the health of the skin and muscles. Vitamin E is also involved in the functioning of the immune system. Vitamin E deficiency is rare, but can lead to problems with the nervous system and muscles. The recommended daily dose of vitamin E for children varies depending on age. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.

• Vitamin K (Phillokhinon): blood coagulation, bones: Vitamin K is necessary for blood coagulation, helping to prevent bleeding. He also plays a role in maintaining bone health. Vitamin K deficiency is rare, but can lead to bleeding and problems with bones. The recommended daily dose of vitamin K for children varies depending on age. Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables, broccoli and some vegetable oils. Newborns usually get vitamin K injection after birth to prevent bleeding.

4. Important minerals for children and their functions.

• Calcium: bones, teeth, muscles, nervous system: Calcium is the main building material for bones and teeth. It is necessary for the normal growth and development of bone tissue. Calcium also plays an important role in the functioning of muscles and nervous system, participating in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteoporosis at a later age. The recommended daily dose of calcium for children varies depending on age. Calcium is contained in dairy products, green leafy vegetables, legumes and enriched products.

• Iron: hematopoiesis, oxygen transfer, brain development: Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells, which transfers oxygen throughout the body. Iron also plays an important role in the development of the brain and cognitive functions. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which is characterized by fatigue, pallor of the skin, weakness and a decrease in immunity. The recommended daily dose of iron for children varies depending on age. Iron is found in meat, fish, poultry, legumes, green leafy vegetables and enriched products.

• Zinc: immunity, growth, wound healing: Zinc plays an important role in maintaining the immune system, helping the body fight infections. It is also necessary for growth and development, as well as for wound healing. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in immunity, growth retardation and slow healing of wounds. The recommended daily zinc dose for children varies depending on age. Zinc is contained in meat, seafood, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

• Iodine: thyroid gland, brain development: Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Iodine also plays an important role in the development of the brain and cognitive functions. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid diseases, such as goiter, as well as to problems with brain development and cognitive functions. The recommended daily dose of iodine for children varies depending on age. Iodine is contained in seafood, iodized salt and dairy products.

• Magnesium: muscles, nervous system, bones: Magnesium plays an important role in the functioning of muscles and nervous system, participating in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. It is also necessary to maintain bone health and regulate blood sugar. Magnesium deficiency is rare, but can lead to muscle cramps, nervousness and heart rhythm disturbances. The recommended daily dose of magnesium for children varies depending on age. Magnesium is found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains.

5. Types of vitamin complexes for children.

• Multivitamins: Advantages and disadvantages: Multivitamins contain a combination of various vitamins and minerals in one tablet or capsule. The advantages of multivitamins include the convenience of administration, the ability to provide a wide range of nutrients and a relatively low cost. The disadvantages of multivitamins include the possibility of an overdose of certain vitamins and minerals, not always the optimal ratio of nutrients and the presence of excipients, such as dyes and flavorings. It is important to choose multivitamins designed specifically for children, taking into account their age and needs.

• Monopasses: in what cases are needed: Monopasses contain only one vitamin or mineral. They are necessary in cases where a child has a deficiency of a particular nutrient. For example, the monopoline of vitamin D can be assigned to children on breast feeding, or children living in regions with insufficient sunlight. A monopoline of iron can be prescribed to children with anemia. It is important to consult a doctor before taking the monopoline in order to determine the necessary dosage and duration of the course of treatment.

• Chewing tablets, marmalade vitamins, drops, syrups: which format to choose?:

  • Chewing tablets: Convenient for older children who can chew. They often have a pleasant taste and aroma, which facilitates the reception. It is important to ensure that the child carefully chews the tablet before swallowing.
  • Marmalade vitamins: They are very popular in children because of their pleasant taste and shape. However, they often contain sugar and dyes, so you should choose products with the minimum content of these substances.
  • Drops: Convenient for newborn and inflorescences, as they can be easily added to milk or water. It is important to accurately observe the dosage indicated on the packaging.
  • Syrups: Suitable for children who do not like pills. They often have a pleasant taste and aroma. It is important to monitor sugar in syrup. When choosing the format of the vitamin complex, it is necessary to take into account the age of the child, his preferences and the presence of allergies.

• Vitamins for newborn and infants: Newborn and infants need special attention to nutrition. Vitamin D is the most important vitamin for this age group, as it is necessary for the growth of bones and teeth. Breast milk may contain an insufficient amount of vitamin D, so pediatricians often recommend additional intake D in the form of drops.

• Vitamins for preschoolers: Preschoolers need sufficient vitamins and minerals to maintain growth, development and immunity. Multivitamins in the form of chewing tablets or marmalade vitamins can be a convenient way to provide a child with the necessary nutrients. It is important to choose products with low sugar and dyes.

• Vitamins for schoolchildren and adolescents: Schoolchildren and adolescents need enough vitamins and minerals to maintain energy, concentration and health of bones. Vitamins of group B, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and iron are especially important for this age group. Multivitamins in the form of chewing tablets, capsules or tablets can be a convenient way to provide a child with the necessary nutrients.

6. The composition of vitamin complexes: what to pay attention to.

• Dosage of vitamins and minerals: recommendations by age: It is important to choose vitamin complexes with a dosage corresponding to the age of the child. Too high dose of vitamins and minerals can lead to an overdose and negative health consequences. Too low dose may not have the proper effect. Follow the recommendations indicated on the packaging of the product, and consult your doctor if you have any questions.

• Excipients: dyes, flavors, preservatives: Excipients, such as dyes, flavors and preservatives, can cause allergic reactions in some children. It is important to choose vitamin complexes with the minimum content of these substances. If the child has allergies to certain substances, carefully study the composition of the product before buying.

• Allergens: lactose, gluten, soy: Vitamin complexes can contain allergens, such as lactose, gluten and soy. If the child has an allergy to these substances, choose products that do not contain them. Carefully study the composition of the product before buying.

• Sahara or sweetener’s availability: Some vitamin complexes, especially in the form of chewing tablets and marmalade vitamins, contain sugar or sweeteners. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to caries and other health problems. Choose products with minimal sugar or sweeteners.

• Quality certification and safety: Choose vitamin complexes from reliable manufacturers that have quality and safety certificates. Pay attention to the presence of signs of compliance with quality standards, such as GMP (good manufactoring practice). This guarantees that the product is produced in accordance with established standards and is safe for use.

7. How to choose the right vitamins for the child.

• Consultation with a pediatrician: Before you start giving your child vitamin additives, be sure to consult a pediatrician. The doctor will be able to evaluate the state of health of the child, identify possible deficits of vitamins and minerals and recommend a suitable vitamin complex in the correct dosage.

• Accounting for the age and needs of the child: Choose vitamin complexes designed specifically for children of a certain age. The need for vitamins and minerals changes with age, so it is important to consider this factor when choosing a product. Also take into account the individual needs of the child, such as the presence of chronic diseases, allergies or special dietary restrictions.

• Study of composition and dosage: Carefully study the composition of the vitamin complex and make sure that it contains the necessary vitamins and minerals in the correct dosage. Avoid products with a high sugar content, dyes, flavorings and other auxiliary substances.

• The choice of a reliable manufacturer: Choose vitamin complexes from reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and quality certificates. Avoid the purchase of products from unknown or unverified manufacturers.

• Reviews of other parents: Read other parents’ reviews about vitamin complexes that you are considering. This will help you get an idea of the quality of the product and its effectiveness. However, remember that the reviews of other parents are not a replacement for a consultation with a doctor.

8. How to give vitamins to children.

• Dosage and reception mode: Strictly observe the dosage indicated on the packaging of the vitamin complex or recommended by the doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Give the vitamins to the child in accordance with the specified admission mode.

• Food combination: Some vitamins are better absorbed with food, while others are on an empty stomach. Read the instructions for use and give vitamins in accordance with the recommendations.

• How to give vitamins to children who refuse to drink them: If the child refuses to drink vitamins, try the following ways:

  • Mix vitamins with a small amount of juice, water or yogurt.
  • Choose vitamins in the form that the child likes (chewing tablets, marmalade vitamins, syrups).
  • Turn vitamins into the game.
  • Encourage the child for taking vitamins.
  • Consult a doctor if you have difficulties with taking vitamins.

• Vitamin storage: Keep vitamins in an inaccessible place for children, in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight. Follow the storage conditions indicated on the packaging of the product.

9. Overdose of vitamins: symptoms and consequences.

• Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin A: Symptoms of vitamin A overdose may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, irritability, drowsiness, dry skin, peeling of the skin, hair loss, bone pain and joints. In severe cases, an overdose of vitamin A can lead to damage to the liver and other serious complications.

• Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin D: Symptoms of vitamin D overdose may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination, pain in bones and muscles, deposition of calcium in soft tissues. In severe cases, an overdose of vitamin D can lead to kidney damage and other serious complications.

• Symptoms of an overdose of vitamin C: Symptoms of vitamin C overdose are usually insignificant and may include stomach disorder, diarrhea and nausea. In rare cases, an overdose of vitamin C can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys.

• Other vitamins: risk of overdose: An overdose of other vitamins is less common, but can also lead to negative health consequences. It is important to observe the recommended dosage of vitamins and minerals and not exceed it.

• First aid for an overdose of vitamins: If you suspect that the child has an overdose of vitamins, immediately consult a doctor or an ambulance. Tell the doctor what vitamins and in what dosage the child took. Before the doctor’s arrival, you can give the child activated carbon, which will help tie vitamins and reduce their absorption.

10. Sources of vitamins in food.

• Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Diversify the child’s diet with various fruits and vegetables to provide him with a wide range of nutrients.

• Meat, fish, eggs: Meat, fish and eggs are a good source of protein, iron and B vitamins B. Turn these products into the child’s diet several times a week.

• Dairy products: Dairy products are a good source of calcium, vitamin D and group B vitamins. Turn on dairy products in the child’s diet daily.

• Cereals and legumes: Cereals and legumes are a good source of fiber, B vitamins and minerals. Turn these products in the child’s diet daily.

• Recipes of dishes rich in vitamins: There are many recipes for dishes rich in vitamins and minerals. Prepare delicious and healthy dishes for the child using a variety of food.

11. The influence of vitamins on the immunity of the child.

• Vitamin C and immunity: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body cells from damage by free radicals. It also stimulates the production of white blood cells that play an important role in the fight against infections.

• Vitamin D and immunity: Vitamin D affects the immune system, modulating the activity of immune cells and increasing their ability to fight infections.

• Vitamin A and immunity: Vitamin A is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes, which are a barrier to penetrate infections into the body. It also participates in the functioning of immune cells.

• Zinc and immunity: Zinc plays an important role in the development and functioning of immune cells. It also has antioxidant properties.

• Other vitamins and minerals that support immunity: B vitamins, vitamin E, selenium and iron also play an important role in maintaining the immune system.

12. Vitamins for children with special needs.

• Vitamins for children with allergies: Children with allergies need to choose vitamin complexes that do not contain allergens, such as lactose, gluten, soy, nuts and eggs.

• Vitamins for children with gastrointestinal diseases: Children with gastrointestinal diseases may require an additional intake of vitamins and minerals, since they may disrupt the absorption of nutrients from food.

• Vitamins for Vegetarian children and vegans: Vegetarian children and vegans need to receive a sufficient amount of vitamin B12, iron, calcium and vitamin D, which are mainly contained in animal products.

• Vitamins for often sick children: Often sick children need increased consumption of vitamins and minerals that support the immune system.

• Vitamins for children with developmental delay: Children with developmental retardation may require additional intake of vitamins and minerals that support growth and development.

13. Vitamins to improve appetite in children.

• B vitamins and appetite: B vitamins play an important role in metabolism and energy exchange. The lack of vitamins of group B can lead to a decrease in appetite.

• Zinc and appetite: Zinc is necessary for the normal functioning of taste receptors. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite and a change in taste sensations.

• Other factors affecting the appetite: Various factors, such as stress, fatigue, disease and medication, can affect the child’s appetite.

• How to improve the child’s appetite naturally: To improve the child’s appetite naturally, try the following methods:

  • Offer the child a variety of and tasty dishes.
  • Create a pleasant atmosphere during meals.
  • Do not force the child to eat.
  • Limit the snacks between meals.
  • Provide the child with a sufficient amount of physical activity.

14. Vitamins to improve memory and concentration in children.