Bad for children: necessity or reinsurance

Section 1: Understanding Dietary Supplements (БАДы) and Their Role

Dietary supplements, or БАДы (биологически активные добавки) in Russian, occupy a complex and often controversial space in the realm of child health. Before delving into the specifics of their use in pediatric populations, it’s crucial to establish a solid understanding of what these supplements are, what they are designed to do, and the regulatory landscape surrounding them.

1.1 Defining Dietary Supplements: A Broad Spectrum

БАДы encompass a wide variety of products, including:

Vitamins: Essential organic compounds required in small amounts for various metabolic functions. Examples include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12). Each vitamin plays a unique role in processes ranging from immune function and bone health to energy production and nerve function.
Minerals: Inorganic substances essential for growth, development, and overall health. Key minerals include calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and iodine. They are crucial for bone formation, oxygen transport, enzyme activity, and maintaining electrolyte balance.
Herbal Supplements: Products derived from plants, intended to provide medicinal or therapeutic benefits. These can include extracts, powders, capsules, and teas containing various bioactive compounds. Examples include echinacea (for immune support), chamomile (for calming effects), and ginger (for digestive support).
Amino Acids: The building blocks of proteins, essential for tissue repair, muscle growth, and enzyme production. Examples include essential amino acids (which the body cannot produce on its own, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine) and non-essential amino acids (which the body can produce).
Probiotics: Live microorganisms (typically bacteria or yeast) that are intended to benefit the host by improving the gut microbiome. These are often used to support digestive health, boost the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Polyunsaturated fatty acids that are crucial for brain development, heart health, and reducing inflammation. The most important omega-3 fatty acids are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), typically found in fatty fish.
Other Substances: This category includes a diverse range of products, such as enzymes (which aid in digestion), prebiotics (which nourish beneficial gut bacteria), and various plant-derived compounds believed to have health-promoting properties.

1.2 Intended Use and Claims: Understanding the Limitations

It’s crucial to understand that dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This is a critical distinction from pharmaceuticals, which undergo rigorous clinical trials to demonstrate their efficacy and safety for specific medical conditions.

БАДы are generally marketed to:

Supplement the diet: To provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in the individual’s normal diet.
Support overall health and well-being: To promote healthy bodily functions and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Enhance athletic performance: To improve strength, endurance, or recovery.
Address specific health concerns: To alleviate symptoms of minor ailments or support specific bodily functions (e.g., digestive health, immune function).

Manufacturers of БАДы are permitted to make certain claims about their products, such as structure/function claims (e.g., “Calcium supports strong bones”) or claims about the product’s effect on a specific body system (e.g., “Promotes healthy digestion”). However, they cannot make claims that the product can treat or cure a disease.

1.3 Regulatory Landscape: Navigating the Labyrinth

The regulatory framework governing dietary supplements varies significantly across countries. In Russia, БАДы are regulated by the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing (Rospotrebnadzor).

Key aspects of the regulatory framework include:

Notification System: Manufacturers are typically required to notify regulatory authorities before marketing a new dietary supplement. This notification usually includes information about the product’s ingredients, manufacturing process, and labeling.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Manufacturers are expected to adhere to GMP standards to ensure the quality, purity, and consistency of their products. GMP standards address issues such as ingredient sourcing, manufacturing processes, quality control testing, and labeling.
Labeling Requirements: Dietary supplement labels must include specific information, such as the product’s name, list of ingredients, serving size, directions for use, and any necessary warnings.
Post-Market Surveillance: Regulatory authorities monitor the market for adverse events associated with dietary supplements and may take action against products that are found to be unsafe or mislabeled.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the regulatory framework. Unlike pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements are not subject to pre-market approval. This means that manufacturers are not required to prove the safety or efficacy of their products before they are marketed. This lack of rigorous pre-market testing raises concerns about the potential risks associated with dietary supplement use, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children.

Section 2: Nutritional Needs of Children: A Foundation for Informed Decisions

Understanding the specific nutritional requirements of children at different stages of development is paramount before considering the role of dietary supplements. A balanced and varied diet should be the primary source of nutrients, and supplementation should only be considered when there is a documented deficiency or a specific medical condition that necessitates it.

2.1 Key Nutrients for Growth and Development:

Children require a wide range of nutrients to support their rapid growth and development. Some of the most important nutrients include:

Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function.
Carbohydrates: The primary source of energy for the body, fueling physical activity and brain function.
Fats: Provide energy, support cell growth, and help the body absorb certain vitamins. Healthy fats, such as unsaturated fats found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are particularly important.
Vitamins: Play a vital role in various metabolic processes, including immune function, bone health, and energy production.
- Vitamin A: Important for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.
- Vitamin D: Essential for calcium absorption and bone health.
- Vitamin e: An antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
- B Vitamins: Important for energy production, nerve function, and cell growth.
Minerals: Essential for bone formation, oxygen transport, enzyme activity, and maintaining electrolyte balance.
- Calcium: Crucial for bone and teeth development.
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport and cognitive development.
- Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and growth.
- Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production, which is crucial for brain development.

2.2 Dietary Recommendations by Age Group:

Nutritional requirements vary significantly depending on the child’s age and stage of development. Here’s a general overview of dietary recommendations for different age groups:

Infants (0-6 months): Breast milk or infant formula is the primary source of nutrition. Breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. Iron supplementation may be recommended for exclusively breastfed infants after 4-6 months of age.
Infants (6-12 months): Introduction of complementary foods (solid foods) should begin around 6 months of age. These foods should be nutrient-rich and age-appropriate, such as pureed fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Toddlers (1-3 years): Toddlers require a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. Portion sizes should be adjusted to meet their smaller appetites.
Preschoolers (3-5 years): Preschoolers need a similar diet to toddlers, with an emphasis on variety and nutrient density. They should be encouraged to try new foods and develop healthy eating habits.
School-Age Children (6-12 years): School-age children require a balanced diet to support their continued growth and development. They should be encouraged to eat a variety of foods from all food groups.
Adolescents (13-18 years): Adolescents have increased nutrient needs due to their rapid growth spurt. They require adequate protein, calcium, iron, and other nutrients to support their physical and cognitive development.

2.3 Identifying Nutritional Deficiencies:

Recognizing potential signs of nutritional deficiencies is crucial. Common signs include:

Fatigue and weakness: May indicate iron deficiency.
Pale skin: Another sign of iron deficiency.
Poor growth: May indicate a deficiency in protein, calories, or other essential nutrients.
Delayed development: Can be a sign of various nutrient deficiencies, including iodine deficiency.
Brittle nails and hair: May indicate a deficiency in biotin or other nutrients.
Frequent infections: Can be a sign of vitamin C, vitamin D, or zinc deficiency.
Skin rashes: May indicate a deficiency in essential fatty acids or certain vitamins.

If you suspect your child has a nutritional deficiency, it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician or registered dietitian. They can assess your child’s diet, perform necessary blood tests, and recommend appropriate interventions, including dietary changes or supplementation.

Section 3: When Are Dietary Supplements Necessary for Children?

While a balanced diet should always be the primary goal, there are specific circumstances where dietary supplements may be considered necessary or beneficial for children. These circumstances typically involve documented nutrient deficiencies, specific medical conditions, or dietary restrictions that make it difficult to obtain adequate nutrients from food alone.

3.1 Documented Nutrient Deficiencies:

The most common and justifiable reason for supplementing a child’s diet is to address a documented nutrient deficiency. This requires a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional, including a review of the child’s diet, medical history, and potentially blood tests to confirm the deficiency.

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Iron deficiency is a common problem in infants and young children, particularly those who are exclusively breastfed or who have a limited intake of iron-rich foods. Iron supplementation is often recommended to treat iron deficiency anemia and prevent its recurrence.
Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, particularly in children who live in northern latitudes, have darker skin pigmentation, or spend limited time outdoors. Vitamin D supplementation is often recommended to prevent rickets (a bone disease caused by vitamin D deficiency) and support overall bone health.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in children who follow vegan or vegetarian diets, as vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products. Vitamin B12 supplementation may be necessary to prevent neurological problems and anemia.
Calcium Deficiency: While less common, calcium deficiency can occur in children who have lactose intolerance or who avoid dairy products. Calcium supplementation may be necessary to support bone health.

3.2 Specific Medical Conditions:

Certain medical conditions can increase a child’s risk of nutrient deficiencies or necessitate the use of dietary supplements.

Cystic Fibrosis: Children with cystic fibrosis have difficulty absorbing nutrients from food due to pancreatic insufficiency. They often require supplementation with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and pancreatic enzymes to improve nutrient absorption.
Celiac Disease: Children with celiac disease have damage to their small intestine caused by gluten intolerance. This can lead to malabsorption of nutrients. They may require supplementation with iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: These inflammatory bowel diseases can also lead to malabsorption of nutrients. Children with these conditions may require supplementation with iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
Food Allergies and Intolerances: Children with multiple food allergies or intolerances may have difficulty obtaining adequate nutrients from their diet. They may require supplementation with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to prevent deficiencies.
Prematurity: Premature infants have increased nutrient needs due to their rapid growth and development. They often require supplementation with iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.

3.3 Dietary Restrictions:

Certain dietary restrictions, such as vegan or vegetarian diets, can increase a child’s risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Vegan Diets: Vegan diets exclude all animal products, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs. Children following vegan diets are at risk of deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, calcium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Supplementation with these nutrients is often necessary.
Vegetarian Diets: Vegetarian diets exclude meat, poultry, and fish, but may include dairy and eggs. Children following vegetarian diets are at risk of deficiencies in iron and vitamin B12. Supplementation may be necessary, particularly for those who consume limited amounts of dairy or eggs.

3.4 Other Circumstances:

Limited Access to Nutritious Foods: Children who live in food-insecure households may have limited access to nutritious foods and may benefit from multivitamin supplementation to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrients.
Certain Medications: Some medications can interfere with nutrient absorption or increase nutrient excretion. Children taking these medications may require supplementation to prevent deficiencies.

It’s important to emphasize that dietary supplements should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-treating with supplements can be dangerous, particularly for children. A healthcare professional can assess the child’s individual needs, determine whether supplementation is necessary, and recommend appropriate dosages and formulations.

Section 4: Potential Risks and Side Effects of Dietary Supplements in Children

While dietary supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with their use, particularly in children. Children are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of supplements due to their smaller size, developing organs, and unique metabolic processes.

4.1 Overdose and Toxicity:

One of the most significant risks associated with dietary supplements is the potential for overdose and toxicity. Many supplements, particularly fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and minerals such as iron, can be toxic if taken in excessive amounts.

Vitamin A Toxicity: Excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to liver damage, bone pain, hair loss, and skin problems.
Vitamin D Toxicity: Excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and kidney damage.
Iron Toxicity: Iron overdose can be particularly dangerous for children. It can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even liver damage. Accidental iron overdose is a leading cause of poisoning in young children.
Other Nutrient Toxicities: Excessive intake of other nutrients, such as zinc, selenium, and niacin, can also lead to adverse effects.

It’s crucial to follow recommended dosages carefully and never exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for any nutrient. The UL is the maximum daily intake of a nutrient that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for almost all individuals in the general population.

4.2 Interactions with Medications:

Dietary supplements can interact with medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Vitamin K and Warfarin: Vitamin K can interfere with the blood-thinning effects of warfarin, a common anticoagulant medication.
St. John’s Wort and Antidepressants: St. John’s Wort, a herbal supplement used to treat depression, can interact with certain antidepressant medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Grapefruit Juice and Certain Medications: Grapefruit juice can interact with a wide range of medications, including statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medications), and certain antihistamines.

It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements your child is taking to avoid potential interactions.

4.3 Contamination and Adulteration:

Dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous testing and quality control standards as pharmaceuticals. This means that there is a risk of contamination and adulteration, which can pose serious health risks.

Contamination: Supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals (such as lead, mercury, and arsenic), pesticides, bacteria, and other harmful substances.
Adulteration: Supplements can be adulterated with undeclared ingredients, such as prescription drugs or synthetic compounds. This can be particularly dangerous for children, as they may be more sensitive to the effects of these substances.

To minimize the risk of contamination and adulteration, choose supplements from reputable manufacturers that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP). Look for products that have been independently tested by a third-party organization, such as NSF International or USP.

4.4 Allergic Reactions:

Some children may be allergic to ingredients in dietary supplements. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Always check the ingredient list carefully for potential allergens, such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, and shellfish. If your child has a known allergy, avoid products that contain that allergen or that are manufactured in a facility that also processes that allergen.

4.5 Gastrointestinal Upset:

Some dietary supplements can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. This is particularly common with iron supplements, which can cause constipation.

Start with low doses of supplements and gradually increase the dose as tolerated. Give supplements with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.

4.6 Interference with Appetite:

Certain dietary supplements, particularly stimulant-containing supplements, can interfere with appetite. This can be a concern for children who are already picky eaters or who have difficulty gaining weight.

Avoid giving children stimulant-containing supplements unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional.

4.7 Unknown Long-Term Effects:

The long-term effects of many dietary supplements are unknown, particularly in children. Children’s bodies are still developing, and they may be more vulnerable to the long-term effects of certain supplements.

Use caution when giving children dietary supplements and avoid long-term use unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional.

Section 5: Navigating the Market: Choosing Safe and Effective Supplements

Given the potential risks associated with dietary supplements, it’s crucial to be a discerning consumer and choose safe and effective products. This requires careful research, attention to labeling, and a healthy dose of skepticism.

5.1 Consulting with a Healthcare Professional:

The first and most important step is to consult with a pediatrician or registered dietitian before giving your child any dietary supplement. A healthcare professional can assess your child’s individual needs, determine whether supplementation is necessary, and recommend appropriate dosages and formulations. They can also help you identify potential risks and interactions with medications.

5.2 Reading Labels Carefully:

Always read the label carefully before giving your child a dietary supplement. Pay attention to the following information:

Product Name and Description: Make sure the product is clearly labeled and that you understand what it is intended to do.
List of Ingredients: Check the ingredient list carefully for potential allergens and other ingredients you want to avoid.
Serving Size and Directions for Use: Follow the recommended serving size and directions for use carefully. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Supplement Facts Panel: The supplement facts panel provides information about the amount of each nutrient in the product.
Warnings and Precautions: Read any warnings and precautions carefully.
Expiration Date: Check the expiration date to ensure the product is still potent.
Manufacturer Information: Look for the name and address of the manufacturer.

5.3 Choosing Reputable Manufacturers:

Choose supplements from reputable manufacturers that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP). Look for products that have been independently tested by a third-party organization, such as NSF International or USP. These organizations test products for purity, potency, and contamination.

5.4 Being Wary of Marketing Claims:

Be wary of exaggerated or unsubstantiated marketing claims. Dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Claims that a supplement can treat or cure a disease are illegal and should be viewed with skepticism.

5.5 Avoiding Multilevel Marketing (MLM) Companies:

Be cautious of dietary supplements sold through multilevel marketing (MLM) companies. These companies often rely on aggressive marketing tactics and may make exaggerated claims about their products.

5.6 Researching Ingredients:

Research the ingredients in a supplement before giving it to your child. Look for scientific evidence to support the claims made about the ingredient. Be aware that some ingredients may not be safe for children.

5.7 Reporting Adverse Events:

If your child experiences any adverse events after taking a dietary supplement, report it to your healthcare provider and to the regulatory authority in your country (in Russia, this is Rospotrebnadzor).

5.8 Specific Supplement Considerations:

Multivitamins: Choose a multivitamin that is specifically formulated for children and that contains the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) for essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid multivitamins that contain excessive amounts of any nutrient.
Vitamin D: Choose a vitamin D supplement that contains vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), which is the form of vitamin D that is most readily absorbed by the body.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Choose an omega-3 fatty acid supplement that contains both EPA and DHA. Look for products that are purified to remove mercury and other contaminants.
Probiotics: Choose a probiotic supplement that contains multiple strains of beneficial bacteria. Look for products that have been clinically tested and shown to be effective.
Herbal Supplements: Exercise caution when using herbal supplements in children. Many herbal supplements have not been adequately studied in children and may not be safe.

Section 6: Specific Supplements: Benefits, Risks, and Recommendations

This section will delve into some of the most commonly used dietary supplements for children, examining their potential benefits, risks, and specific recommendations for their use.

6.1 Multivitamins:

Benefits: Multivitamins can help ensure that children are getting adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly those who are picky eaters or who have limited access to nutritious foods.
Risks: Excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can be toxic.
Recommendations: Choose a multivitamin that is specifically formulated for children and that contains the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) for essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid multivitamins that contain excessive amounts of any nutrient.

6.2 Vitamin D:

Benefits: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. It can also help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Risks: Excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and kidney damage.
Recommendations: Vitamin D supplementation is often recommended for children who live in northern latitudes, have darker skin pigmentation, or spend limited time outdoors. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for children is 600 IU.

6.3 Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain development, heart health, and reducing inflammation.
Risks: Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and diarrhea.
Recommendations: Choose an omega-3 fatty acid supplement that contains both EPA and DHA. Look for products that are purified to remove mercury and other contaminants.

6.4 Probiotics:

Benefits: Probiotics can help improve digestive health, boost the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Risks: Probiotics are generally safe, but they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some children.
Recommendations: Choose a probiotic supplement that contains multiple strains of beneficial bacteria. Look for products that have been clinically tested and shown to be effective.

6.5 Iron:

Benefits: Iron is essential for oxygen transport and cognitive development.
Risks: Iron overdose can be particularly dangerous for children. It can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even liver damage.
Recommendations: Iron supplementation is only recommended for children who have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia by a healthcare professional.

6.6 Calcium:

Benefits: Calcium is crucial for bone and teeth development.
Risks: Excessive intake of calcium can lead to constipation and kidney stones.
Recommendations: Calcium supplementation is only recommended for children who have a documented calcium deficiency or who have a medical condition that impairs calcium absorption.

6.7 Vitamin C:

Benefits: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.
Risks: High doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea.
Recommendations: Vitamin C supplementation is generally not necessary for children who eat a balanced diet.

6.8 Zinc:

Benefits: Zinc is important for immune function, wound healing, and growth.
Risks: Excessive intake of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and weaken the immune system.
Recommendations: Zinc supplementation is generally not necessary for children who eat a balanced diet.

6.9 Echinacea:

Benefits: Echinacea is an herbal supplement that is often used to boost the immune system and prevent colds.
Risks: Echinacea can cause allergic reactions in some children.
Recommendations: Echinacea is not recommended for children under the age of 2. Consult with a healthcare professional before giving echinacea to older children.

6.10 Melatonin:

Benefits: Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep. It is sometimes used to treat sleep problems in children.
Risks: The long-term effects of melatonin use in children are unknown.
Recommendations: Melatonin should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Section 7: The Role of Parents and Caregivers: Promoting Healthy Habits

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to give a child dietary supplements rests with the parents or caregivers. It’s a decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, with careful consideration of the child’s individual needs, potential risks, and the overall goal of promoting healthy habits.

7.1 Prioritizing a Balanced Diet:

The most important thing parents can do is to prioritize a balanced and varied diet for their children. This means offering a wide range of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy (or dairy alternatives) in appropriate portions. Make mealtimes enjoyable and encourage children to try new foods.

7.2 Educating Children About Healthy Eating:

Teach children about the importance of healthy eating and how to make healthy food choices. Involve them in meal planning and preparation. Make healthy eating fun and engaging.

7.3 Limiting Processed Foods and Sugary Drinks:

Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. These foods are often low in nutrients and high in calories, and they can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.

7.4 Encouraging Physical Activity:

Encourage children to be physically active for at least 60 minutes each day. Physical activity is essential for overall health and well-being.

7.5 Creating a Supportive Environment:

Create a supportive environment that promotes healthy habits. This means making healthy foods readily available and limiting access to unhealthy foods. It also means modeling healthy eating and physical activity habits yourself.

7.6 Being a Role Model:

Children learn by example. Be a role model for healthy eating and physical activity. Show your children that you value healthy habits.

7.7 Seeking Professional Guidance:

Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from a pediatrician or registered dietitian. They can provide personalized recommendations for your child’s nutritional needs and help you address any concerns you may have about their diet or health.

7.8 Avoiding Self-Treating:

Never self-treat your child with dietary supplements. Always consult with a healthcare professional before giving your child any supplement.

7.9 Storing Supplements Safely:

Store dietary supplements safely out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

7.10 Staying Informed:

Stay informed about the latest research on dietary supplements and their potential risks and benefits. Be a critical consumer and be wary of exaggerated or unsubstantiated claims.

By prioritizing a balanced diet, encouraging healthy habits, and seeking professional guidance when needed, parents and caregivers can help their children achieve optimal health and well-being without relying on unnecessary dietary supplements. Dietary supplements should only be considered as a complement to a healthy lifestyle, not as a replacement for it.

Bad for children: necessity or reinsurance

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