Vitamins for children: benefits and harms

Vitamins for children: benefits and harm. Detailed guide for parents

Section 1: The basics of vitamins and their role in children’s development

1. What are vitamins and why do children need them?
   Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for the correct functioning of the body. They are not produced in sufficient quantities (or not produced at all) by the body itself and should come with food or additives. In children, vitamins play a key role in growth, development, maintaining the immune system, the work of the nervous system, the formation of bones and teeth, as well as in the general energy balance. The lack of vitamins (vitamin deficiency) or their excess (hypervitaminosis) can lead to serious health problems.

2. The main groups of vitamins: fat -soluble and water -soluble.
   Vitamins are divided into two main groups:

   • Fatable vitamins (A, D, E, K): These vitamins dissolve in fats and accumulate in the body (mainly in the liver and adipose tissue). Therefore, their overdose is more likely than for water -soluble vitamins.

     • Vitamin A (Retinol): It is necessary for vision, skin health, immune system and cell growth. Contained in the liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and other products.
     • Vitamin D (calciferol): Plays an important role in mastering calcium and phosphorus necessary for the health of bones and teeth. The main source is the synthesis in the skin under the influence of sunlight. It is also contained in oily fish, egg yolk and enriched products.
     • Vitamin E (Tokoferol): Antioxidant, protects the cells from damage. Contained in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados.
     • Vitamin K (Phillokhinon): It is necessary for blood coagulation. Contained in green leafy vegetables, broccoli, Brussels cabbage.

   • Water -soluble vitamins (c, group b): These vitamins dissolve in water and do not accumulate in the body in significant quantities. Excess is usually excreted in urine. Therefore, the deficiency of these vitamins can develop faster than the deficiency of fat -soluble.

     • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Antioxidant is necessary for the immune system, wound healing and collagen formation. Contained in citrus fruits, berries, pepper, broccoli.
     • B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): They play an important role in the energy exchange, the work of the nervous system, the formation of red blood cells and the synthesis of DNA. Contained in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes, nuts and seeds.

3. The role of trace elements (minerals) in the children’s body: calcium, iron, zinc and iodine.
   Microelements (minerals) are inorganic substances necessary for various functions of the body. The most important for children:

   • Calcium: The main building material for bones and teeth. It is necessary for the work of muscles, nerves and blood coagulation. Contained in dairy products, green leafy vegetables, enriched products.
   • Iron: It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia. Contained in meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables and enriched products.
   • Zinc: He plays an important role in the immune system, healing of wounds, growth and development. Contained in meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds and legumes.
   • Iodine: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism. Iodine deficiency can lead to problems with growth and development. The main source is iodized salt.

4. Signs and symptoms of deficiency of vitamins and trace elements in children.
   Symptoms of deficiency of vitamins and trace elements can vary depending on the missing substance. General signs:

   • Fatigue and weakness: It may be a sign of a deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 or other vitamins of group B.
   • Growth delay: It can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, zinc or other nutrients.
   • Skin problems: Dryness, peeling, rashes can be associated with a deficiency of vitamin A, vitamin C or zinc.
   • Vision problems: Night blindness or other vision problems can be a sign of vitamin a.
   • Frequent infections: Can be associated with a deficiency of vitamin C, vitamin D or zinc.
   • Problems with bones and teeth: Rachite (in children) or osteomulation (in adults) can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D and calcium.
   • Digestive problems: Can be associated with a deficiency of B vitamins B.
   • Irritability and mood changes: Can be associated with a deficiency of vitamins of group B or iron.
   • Slow wound healing: It may be associated with a deficiency of vitamin C or zinc.
   • Hair loss: It may be associated with a deficiency of iron, zinc or biotin (vitamin B7).
   • Increase in the thyroid gland (goiter): It may be a sign of iodine deficiency.

   It is important to consult a doctor if you suspect a child’s deficiency of vitamins or trace elements. The doctor will be able to conduct an examination and prescribe appropriate tests and treatment.

Section 2: When children need vitamin additives?

1. Balanced nutrition as the main source of vitamins and trace elements.
   A balanced diet, including a variety of products from all food groups, is the best way to provide the child with the necessary vitamins and trace elements. The diet should include:

   • Fruits and vegetables: Contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
   • Grain products (whole grains): Contain vitamins of group B, fiber and minerals.
   • Protein products (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds): Contain protein, iron, zinc and vitamins of group B.
   • Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese): Contain calcium, vitamin D and protein.

   It is important to try to cook food at home in order to control the ingredients and avoid adding excess sugar, salt and unhealthy fats.

2. Situations when vitamin additives can be recommended by a doctor.
   In some cases, vitamin additives can be recommended by a doctor:

   • Premature children: Premature children often need additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, iron and vitamin A.
   • Limited food children: Children who are selective in food or have allergies to certain products may not receive enough vitamins and minerals from their diet.
   • Children with chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases can affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals, which may require additional additives. For example, children with intestinal diseases (for example, Crohn’s disease or celiac disease) can have problems with the absorption of fat -soluble vitamins.
   • Children on a vegetarian or vegan diet: These children may need in the additions of vitamin B12, iron, calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin B12 is contained only in animal products.
   • Children living in regions with a lack of sunlight: In these regions, children may not receive enough vitamin D from sunlight, especially in the winter months.
   • Children taking certain drugs: Some drugs may affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

   It is important to consult a doctor before giving the child vitamin supplements to determine whether they are really necessary and in what dosage.

3. Vitamin D for newborn and babies: necessity and dosage.
   Vitamin D is extremely important for newborn and babies, as it is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which is important for the healthy development of bones and teeth. Breast milk usually does not contain a sufficient amount of vitamin D, so the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants of vitamin D additives at a dose of 400 IU (international units) per day, starting from the first days of life. Children with artificial feeding may also need to add vitamin D if the mixture does not contain a sufficient amount of vitamin D (check the mixture from the manufacturer).

4. Iron additives for children with the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia.
   Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition in children, especially at the age of 6 months to 3 years. Breast milk contains enough iron for the first 4-6 months of life, but then iron supplies in the baby are depleted. Children with artificial feeding are usually not required for additional iron if the mixture is enriched with iron. It is recommended that children with breastfeeding, after 6 months, are recommended to give products rich in iron (for example, meat, puree from the liver) or iron additives if the doctor considers it necessary. Risk factors for the development of iron deficiency anemia in children:

   • Premature birth: Premature children are born with smaller iron reserves.
   • Low birth weight: Children with low birth weight also have smaller iron reserves.
   • Breastfeeding without adding products rich in iron: As mentioned above, breast milk contains not enough iron after 6 months.
   • The use of a large amount of cow’s milk at an early age: Cow milk contains little iron and can prevent the absorption of iron from other sources.
   • Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases can affect iron absorption.

Section 3: The benefits and harm of vitamin additives for children

1. Potential benefits of vitamin additives: strengthening immunity, supporting growth and development.
   With proper use and under the control of a doctor, vitamin additives can benefit children:

   • Strengthening immunity: Vitamins C and D, as well as zinc, play an important role in maintaining the immune system and can help reduce the risk of infections.
   • Support for growth and development: Vitamins D and calcium are necessary for the healthy development of bones and teeth. B vitamins play an important role in the energy exchange and operation of the nervous system. Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin and the transfer of oxygen in the blood, which is important for the growth and development of the brain.
   • Prevention of deficiency of vitamins and trace elements: Vitamin additives can help prevent deficiency of vitamins and trace elements in children with limited nutrition, chronic diseases or other risk factors.
   • Improving cognitive functions: Some studies show that iron supplements can improve cognitive functions in children with iron deficiency anemia.

2. Risks associated with excessive use of vitamins: hypervitaminosis and its consequences.
   Excessive use of vitamins (hypervitaminosis) can be dangerous for children. Fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) accumulate in the body, so their overdose is more likely than for water -soluble vitamins. Symptoms of hypervitaminosis can vary depending on vitamin:

   • Hypervitaminosis a: Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, irritability, fatigue, bone pain and joints, skin peeling and hair loss. In severe cases, it can lead to damage to the liver and brain.
   • Hypervitaminosis D: Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite, constipation, abdominal pain, frequent urination and thirst. In severe cases, it can lead to damage to the kidneys and the formation of stones in the kidneys.
   • Hypervitaminosis E: Usually it does not cause serious problems, but in high doses can increase the risk of bleeding.
   • Hypervitaminosis K: It is rare, but can be dangerous for newborns.
   • Hypervitaminosis C: Usually it does not cause serious problems, but in high doses it can lead to a disorder of the stomach and diarrhea.
   • Hypervitaminosis of group B vitamins: Usually it does not cause serious problems, but in high doses, some vitamins of group B can cause side effects. For example, high doses of niacin (vitamin B3) can cause redness of the skin and itching.

   It is important to strictly observe the recommended dosage of vitamin additives and not give the child more than necessary.

3. The interaction of vitamins with drugs: possible risks and precautions.
   Vitamins can interact with drugs, which can affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. For example:

   • Vitamin K: It can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood).
   • Vitamin C: It can increase the absorption of iron, which can be dangerous for people with hemochromatosis (a disease characterized by an excess of iron in the body).
   • Vitamin E: It can increase the risk of bleeding when taking anticoagulants.

   It is important to inform the doctor about all drugs and additives that the child takes to avoid potential interactions.

4. The danger of an overdose of vitamins in the form of chewing sweets and other attractive forms.
   Vitamin additives in the form of chewing sweets and other attractive forms can be especially dangerous for children, as they can easily confuse them with sweets and eat too much. It is important to store vitamin additives in an inaccessible place for children and carefully monitor the dosage.

Section 4: How to choose vitamins for children: Practical tips

1. Consultation with a doctor: the need before taking vitamin additives.
   Before taking vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, determine whether he really needs vitamin additives, and recommend the right dosage and shape. Self -medication with vitamins can be dangerous.

2. The choice of vitamin complexes corresponding to the age and needs of the child.
   It is important to choose vitamin complexes corresponding to the age and needs of the child. Some vitamin complexes are intended for babies, others for preschool children, and others for adolescents. It is also necessary to take into account the individual needs of the child. For example, a child who is on a vegetarian diet may need an addition of vitamin B12, and a child living in a region with a lack of sunlight may need an addition of vitamin D.

3. The composition of vitamin complexes: what to look for when choosing.
   When choosing a vitamin complex, pay attention to the composition:

   • The content of vitamins and trace elements: Make sure that the vitamin complex contains all the necessary vitamins and trace elements in a sufficient dosage, but not exceeding the recommended.
   • The form of vitamins: Some forms of vitamins are better absorbed by the body than others. For example, methylplate (form of folic acid) is better absorbed than folic acid.
   • The presence of allergens and additives: Check if the vitamin complex of allergens contains (for example, gluten, lactose, soy) or undesirable additives (for example, artificial dyes, flavorings and sweeteners).
   • Certification: Choose vitamin complexes certified by independent organizations (for example, NSF International, USP) to verify their quality and safety.

4. Forms of the release of vitamins: drops, tablets, chewing sweets – which is better for children of different ages.
   The form of release of vitamins depends on the age and preferences of the child:

   • Drops: Suitable for newborns and babies, as they are easy to give and dose.
   • Liquid vitamins: Suitable for young children who still do not know how to swallow pills.
   • Chewing tablets: Suitable for children of preschool and primary school age, which can chew pills. However, as mentioned above, it is important to monitor the dosage, since children can easily confuse them with sweets.
   • Tablets: Suitable for children of senior school age and adolescents who can swallow pills.
   • Jelly Bean: Not recommended due to the high sugar content and risk of overdose.

5. Storage of vitamins: Rules and recommendations.
   Proper storage of vitamins is important for maintaining their effectiveness and safety:

   • Keep vitamins in no way for children: This is especially important for vitamins in the form of chewing sweets and other attractive forms.
   • Store vitamins in a dry, cool and dark place: The heat, moisture and light can destroy vitamins.
   • Do not store vitamins in the bathroom: The bathroom is usually high humidity.
   • Do not store vitamins in the refrigerator if this is not indicated in the instructions: Some vitamins can deteriorate when stored in the refrigerator.
   • Follow the expiration date of vitamins: Do not use vitamins with expired expiration date.

Section 5: Alternative sources of vitamins: natural products and enriched foods

1. Fruits and vegetables as a rich source of vitamins: recommendations for consumption for children.
   Fruits and vegetables are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. It is recommended that children use at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day. Try to offer children a variety of fruits and vegetables of different colors, since each color contains different nutrients. For example, orange fruits and vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin) are rich in vitamin A, green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage) are rich in vitamin K and folic acid, and citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefrufs) are rich in vitamin C. Try to offer fruits and vegetables in fresh form, but frozen and canned vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are also a good option if they do not contain added sugar or salt.

2. Enriched food: choice and advantages (milk, flakes, juices).
   Enriched foods are products to which vitamins and minerals are added, which are not in their natural form or which are contained in them in insufficient quantities. Enriched products can be a useful source of vitamins and minerals, especially for children with limited nutrition. When choosing enriched products, pay attention to the following points:

   • The content of vitamins and minerals: Check what vitamins and minerals are added to the product and in what dosage.
   • The content of sugar, salt and fat: Choose products with low sugar, salt and fat.
   • Whole grain products: Choose enriched whole grains (for example, enriched whole -grain flakes), as they contain more fiber and other nutrients than treated grain products.
   • Do not replace whole products enriched with products: Enriched products should not replace whole products, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. They must complement a balanced diet.

3. Meat and dairy products: sources of vitamins B12, D and iron.
   Meat and dairy products are important sources of vitamins and minerals:

   • Meat: It is an excellent source of iron, vitamin B12 and other vitamins of group B. Consum the meat moderately and choose low -fat varieties.
   • Bird: It is also a good source of iron and vitamin B.
   • Fish: It is an excellent source of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which are useful for the health of the brain and heart.
   • Eggs: Contain vitamin D, vitamin B12 and other vitamins.
   • Milk: It is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D and protein. Choose a low fat milk or skim milk.
   • Yogurt: Contains calcium, protein and probiotics that are useful for intestinal health.
   • SHE: Contains calcium, protein and vitamin B12. Consum the cheese moderately due to the high fat and salt content.

   Vitarians and vegans need to receive vitamin B12 from enriched products or additives, as it is found only in animal products.

4. Recommendations for cooking to preserve vitamins in products.
   Proper cooking can help save vitamins in products:

   • Cook steamed or cook products in a small amount of water: This will help prevent leaching of water -soluble vitamins (vitamins C and group B).
   • Do not digest vegetables: Digging of vegetables can destroy vitamins.
   • Cook products over low heat: High fire can destroy vitamins.
   • Use fresh products: Fresh products contain more vitamins than products that have been stored for a long time.
   • Do not cut fruits and vegetables in advance: Cutting fruits and vegetables in advance can lead to loss of vitamins due to oxidation.
   • Store products in a cool, dark place: This will help save vitamins.

Section 6: Questions and answers to vitamins for children

1. Do children need polyvitamins every day?
   Most healthy children who eat balanced are not needed by polyvitamins every day. A balanced diet should provide all the necessary vitamins and trace elements. Polyvitamins can be recommended by a doctor in certain situations, such as limited nutrition, chronic diseases or living in the region with a lack of sunlight.

2. Are vitamin chewing sweets safe for children?
   Vitamin chewing sweets are safe if they are used in accordance with the instructions and store them in an inaccessible place for children. However, they contain sugar and can contribute to the development of caries. In addition, children can easily confuse them with sweets and eat too much, which can lead to an overdose of vitamins. Therefore, it is recommended to choose vitamin complexes in other forms of release, such as drops or tablets, and store them in an inaccessible place for children.

3. Can vitamins improve appetite in a child?
   The deficiency of some vitamins and trace elements, such as iron and zinc, can lead to loss of appetite. In these cases, vitamin additives can improve appetite. However, in most cases, loss of appetite in children is associated with other factors such as illness, stress or selectivity in food. In these cases, vitamin additives will not help improve appetite. It is important to consult a doctor in order to find out the cause of the loss of appetite and get recommendations for treatment.

4. Do vitamins affect the child’s sleep?
   The deficiency of some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and magnesium, can affect sleep. In these cases, vitamin additives can improve sleep. However, in most cases, sleep problems in children are associated with other factors such as the wrong day of the day, stress or anxiety. In these cases, vitamin additives will not help improve sleep. It is important to provide the child with the correct mode of the day, a calm atmosphere before bedtime and limit the time spent in front of the screen.

5. What vitamins are needed for children for healthy vision?
   Vitamin A is necessary for healthy vision. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to night blindness and other vision problems. Vitamin A is found in the liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and other products. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E are also important, which protect the eyes from damage.

6. How to combine vitamins with other additives?
   Before combining vitamins with other additives, you need to consult a doctor. Some vitamins can interact with other additives, which can affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. For example, vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, which can be dangerous for people with hemochromatosis.

7. Can natural vitamins be better than synthetic?
   Natural vitamins and synthetic vitamins are chemically identical. However, natural vitamins can contain other nutrients, such as antioxidants and phytonutrients that can be healthy. In addition, some people believe that natural vitamins are better absorbed by the body. However, there is no scientific evidence confirming this. It is important to choose high -quality vitamin additives, regardless of whether they are natural or synthetic.

8. How to understand that vitamins really help the child?
   If the child experiences a deficiency of vitamins, vitamin supplements can help improve his health. For example, vitamin additives can improve appetite, sleep, mood and immunity. However, it is important to remember that vitamin additives are not panacea and cannot solve all health problems. It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and physical activity.

9. Is it possible to give children vitamins intended for adults?
   It is not recommended to give children vitamins intended for adults. The dosage of vitamins and trace elements for adults is usually higher than for children. An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous for children. It is important to choose vitamin complexes corresponding to the age and needs of the child.

10. What tests need to be taken to find out what vitamins the child lacks?
    To find out what vitamins do not have enough for the child, it is necessary to pass blood tests. The doctor may prescribe tests to determine the level of vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, zinc and other vitamins and trace elements. Blood tests will help determine if the child has a deficiency of vitamins and trace elements, and recommend appropriate treatment.