How to choose vitamins for a child: expert advice

How to choose vitamins for a child: expert advice

I. Understanding the needs of the child for vitamins:

1. Age categories and changing needs:

   • Infants (0-12 months): The main source of vitamins for babies should be breast milk or adapted milk mixture. Breast milk contains all the necessary vitamins, with the exception of vitamin D, which is recommended to be given additionally, especially in winter or if the baby is on artificial feeding. Adapted mixtures, as a rule, are enriched with vitamins and minerals, but it is important to choose mixtures corresponding to the age and needs of the child. With the introduction of complementary foods, it is necessary to gradually expand the diet of the child with products, rich vitamins, such as vegetables, fruits and cereals. It is important to consider that the early administration of complementary foods can lead to allergic reactions, so the recommendations of the pediatrician must be followed. Some babies may need additional vitamins such as vitamin K (at birth), vitamin B12 (if the mother is a vegan) and iron (after 6 months, especially if the child is on breast feeding).
   • Children from 1 year to 3 years: At this age, children become more active and need more vitamins and minerals to maintain growth and development. It is important to provide a variety of nutrition, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy products and meat. However, even with a balanced diet, children can experience a deficiency of certain vitamins, such as vitamin D, vitamin A and vitamin C. This may be associated with selectivity in food, insufficient stay in the sun or increased need for vitamins during illness. Vitamin complexes for children of this age group are often produced in the form of chewing tablets, syrups or gels, which facilitates their intake. It is important to monitor the dosage and not exceed the recommended daily norm.
   • Children from 4 to 6 years old: Preschool children are actively growing and developing, so they need a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals to maintain the health of bones, teeth, immune system and cognitive functions. At this age, it is important to teach children to healthy nutrition and a variety of products in the diet. However, as in the previous age group, children can experience deficiency of certain vitamins, especially in winter or during illness. Vitamin complexes for children of this age group can be in the form of chewing tablets, capsules or powders that can be added to food or drinks. It is important to choose vitamins corresponding to the age and needs of the child, and follow the recommendations of the doctor.
   • Children from 7 to 12 years old: At this age, children are preparing for a period of puberty, so they need a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals to maintain growth, development and normal functioning of the body. It is important to provide a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy products, meat, fish and nuts. At this age, children can experience a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, iron and zinc, especially if they are actively involved in sports or have certain food restrictions. Vitamin complexes for children of this age group can be in the form of chewing tablets, capsules or tablets that can be swallowed. It is important to choose vitamins corresponding to the age and needs of the child, and follow the recommendations of the doctor.
   • Teenagers (13-18 years old): Adolescence is characterized by rapid growth and hormonal changes, which leads to an increased need for vitamins and minerals. It is important to provide a balanced diet, including all the necessary nutrients. However, adolescents often neglect healthy nutrition, consuming a lot of fast food, sweet drinks and processed products. This can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, which can adversely affect their health, growth, development and academic performance. Adolescents may experience a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, iron, zinc and vitamins of group B. Vitamin complexes for adolescents can be in the form of capsules, tablets or chewing tablets. It is important to choose vitamins corresponding to the age and needs of the child, and follow the recommendations of the doctor.

2. The role of vitamins in the development and health of the child:

   • Vitamin A: It is necessary for vision, growth, the development of bones and the immune system. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision of vision, deceleration of growth, increased susceptibility to infections and skin problems.
   • Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system, promotes the healing of wounds and the absorption of iron. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to weakness, fatigue, bleeding gums and slow healing of wounds.
   • Vitamin D: It is important for the health of bones and teeth, as well as for the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children, bone weakness, increased susceptibility to infections and problems with teeth.
   • B vitamins B: They participate in the metabolism, support the nervous system and help transform food into energy. The deficiency of B vitamins can lead to fatigue, irritability, problems with the nervous system and digestion.
   • Vitamin E: The antioxidant protects cells from damage and supports the immune system. Vitamin E deficiency is rare, but can lead to problems with the nervous system and muscle weakness.
   • Vitamin K: It is necessary for blood coagulation. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding and problems with blood coagulation.

3. Factors affecting the need for vitamins:

   • Health status: Children with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes or cystic fibrosis may need additional vitamins and minerals. Also, children who have undergone operations or injuries may need an increased number of vitamins for recovery.
   • Dietary restrictions: Children observing a vegetarian or vegan diet may experience a deficiency of vitamin B12, iron, zinc and calcium. It is necessary to carefully plan the diet of such children and, if necessary, give them vitamin additives.
   • Food allergies and intolerance: Children with food allergies or intolerance may experience a deficiency of vitamins and minerals if they exclude certain groups of products from their diet. It is necessary to provide such children with adequate replacement of excluded products or give them vitamin additives.
   • Active lifestyle: Children who are actively involved in sports need more vitamins and minerals to maintain energy, growth and recovery after training.
   • Medication: Some drugs can affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals, so you need to consult a doctor about the need to take vitamin additives.
   • Geographical position and seasonality: In regions with an insufficient amount of sunlight, especially in winter, children may experience vitamin D. Also, in certain seasons of the year, access to fresh fruits and vegetables can be limited, which can lead to a deficiency of vitamins.

II. Types of vitamin additives for children:

1. Multivitamins:

   • Composition and dosage: Multivitamins contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals in various dosages. It is important to choose multivitamins corresponding to the age of the child and his needs. It is necessary to carefully study the composition and dosage so as not to exceed the recommended daily norm.
   • Advantages and disadvantages: The advantages of multivitamins are that they provide the child’s body with all the necessary vitamins and minerals in one tablet or capsule. The disadvantages may be that some multivitamins contain too high doses of certain vitamins, which can be harmful to the health of the child.
   • Output forms (chewing tablets, syrups, drops): Multivitamins are produced in various forms, such as chewing tablets, syrups, drops, gels and powders. The choice of release form depends on the age of the child and his preferences. Chewing tablets are usually suitable for children over 3 years old, and syrups and drops for infants and young children.

2. Vitamin D:

   • The need for additional reception: Vitamin D is necessary for the health of bones and teeth, as well as for the immune system. Most children do not receive enough vitamin D from food or sunlight, so it is recommended to give them vitamin additives with vitamin D, especially in winter.
   • Output forms and dosage: Vitamin D is available in the form of drops, tablets and capsules. The dosage of vitamin D depends on the age of the child and his needs. It is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage of vitamin D for your child.
   • Risks of overdose: An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased content of calcium in the blood), which can negatively affect the health of the child. It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage of vitamin D and not give the child more than necessary.

3. Vitamin C:

   • Immunity support: Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight infections.
   • Output forms and dosage: Vitamin C is produced in the form of chewing tablets, hissing tablets, powders and syrups. The dosage of vitamin C depends on the age of the child and his state of health.
   • Features of admission (during the period of illness): During illness, the need for vitamin C increases. During this period, you can increase the dosage of vitamin C, but not exceed the recommended daily norm.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids:

   • The benefits for the brain and vision: Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for the development of the brain and vision of the child. They are also useful for the cardiovascular system and the immune system.
   • Sources (fish oil, vegetable oils): Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from fish oil, linseed oil, chia seeds and walnuts.
   • Output forms and dosage: Omega-3 fatty acids are produced in the form of capsules, chewing tablets and syrups. The dosage of omega-3 fatty acids depends on the age of the child and his needs.

5. Probiotics:

   • Support for intestinal microflora: Probiotics are useful bacteria that support a healthy intestinal microflora. Healthy intestinal microflora is important for digestion, immunity and general health of the child.
   • Application for digestive problems: Probiotics can help with digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea and bloating.
   • Output forms and dosage: Probiotics are produced in the form of capsules, powders and drops. The dosage of probiotics depends on the age of the child and his state of health.

III. Criteria for choosing vitamins for children:

1. Age category:

   • Specialized formulas for each age group: It is important to choose vitamins designed specifically for a specific age group, since the needs for vitamins and minerals change with age. Vitamins for babies differ from vitamins for teenagers in composition and dosage.
   • Dosage corresponding to age: It is necessary to strictly observe the dosage indicated on the packaging of vitamins, and not give the child more than necessary. An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous to the health of the child.

2. Composition:

   • The presence of the necessary vitamins and minerals: Make sure vitamins contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in sufficient quantities.
   • Lack of artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives: It is better to choose vitamins that do not contain artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives, as they can cause allergic reactions in children.
   • Natural ingredients: It is preferable to choose vitamins containing natural ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables and herbs.

3. Output form:

   • Convenience of reception for a child: The choice of release form depends on the age of the child and his preferences. Drops or syrups are suitable for babies, and for older children – chewing tablets or capsules.
   • Taste and smell: It is important that vitamins have a pleasant taste and smell, so that the child willingly accept them.

4. Manufacturer:

   • Reputation and reliability of the manufacturer: Choose vitamins from famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation in the market.
   • Quality certification: Make sure vitamins are certified and comply with quality standards.

5. Reviews and recommendations:

   • Other parents’ opinions: Before buying vitamins, it is useful to read the reviews of other parents and find out their opinion about various brands and forms of release.
   • Pediatrician recommendations: It is best to consult a pediatrician before giving the child vitamins. The doctor will help to determine what vitamins to your child are needed and in what dosage.

IV. Consultation with a doctor:

1. Determining the need to receive vitamins:

   • History collection and examination of the child: The doctor will examine the child and collect an anamnesis to determine if he has a deficiency of vitamins or minerals.
   • The purpose of the tests (if necessary): In some cases, the doctor may prescribe blood tests to check the level of vitamins and minerals in the child’s body.

2. The choice of the optimal vitamin complex:

   • Individual recommendations: The doctor will give individual recommendations for choosing the optimal vitamin complex, taking into account the age of the child, his state of health, diet and other factors.
   • Dosage and duration of the reception: The doctor will determine the dosage of vitamins and the duration of the reception in order to avoid overdose and side effects.

3. Monitoring the condition of the child during vitamins:

   • Evaluation of effectiveness: The doctor will monitor the condition of the child during the intake of vitamins in order to evaluate their effectiveness and, if necessary, adjust the dosage or replace the vitamin complex.
   • Identification of side effects: The doctor will monitor possible side effects of taking vitamins and, if necessary, will take measures to eliminate them.

V. Rules for taking vitamins:

1. Dosage compliance:

   • Using a measured spoon or pipette: For accurate dosing of vitamins, use a measured spoon or pipette included in the kit.
   • Do not exceed the recommended dose: Do not exceed the recommended dose of vitamins, as this can be harmful to the health of the child.

2. Reception time:

   • Depending on the type of vitamin (before or after eating): Some vitamins are better absorbed if they take them before meals, while others are taken after eating. Follow the instructions on the packaging of vitamins.
   • Regularity of reception: It is important to take vitamins regularly in order to maintain a constant level of vitamins and minerals in the child’s body.

3. Combination with other drugs:

   • Consultation with a doctor about the interaction of vitamins and drugs: Before giving a child vitamins, if he takes any medicine, you need to consult a doctor in order to learn about possible interactions between vitamins and drugs.

4. Vitamin storage:

   • Inaccessible to children, a place: Keep vitamins in an inaccessible place for children to avoid random overdose.
   • In accordance with the instructions (temperature, humidity): Store vitamins in accordance with the instructions on the package to maintain their effectiveness.

VI. Alternative sources of vitamins:

1. Balanced nutrition:

   • The inclusion in the diet of fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy products, meat and fish: Balanced nutrition is the main source of vitamins and minerals. Include a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals in the child’s diet.
   • Variety of products: The more diverse the child’s diet is, the more vitamins and minerals he receives.

2. Enriched products:

   • The choice of products enriched with vitamins (for example, cereals, milk): Some products are enriched with vitamins and minerals to increase their nutritional value. Choose such products if your child does not receive enough vitamins from regular nutrition.

3. Sunlight:

   • Stay in the sun to develop vitamin D: Sunlight is an important source of vitamin D. Regularly walk with the child in the fresh air so that he receives enough vitamin D. However, it is necessary to remember the protection of the skin from sunburn.

VII. Myths and errors about vitamins for children:

1. Vitamins replace good nutrition:

   • Vitamins are an addition to the diet, not replacement: Vitamins are an addition to the diet, and not replacing a good nutrition. They cannot replace all the necessary nutrients that the child receives from food.

2. The more vitamins, the better:

   • An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous: An overdose of vitamins can be dangerous to the health of the child. It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage and not give the child more than necessary.

3. All children need vitamins:

   • Not all children need vitamin additives: Not all children need vitamin additives. If the child receives a balanced diet and has no health problems, then he may not need additional vitamins.

4. Natural vitamins are always better than synthetic:

   • Synthetic vitamins can be as effective as natural: Synthetic vitamins can be as effective as natural ones. It is important to choose vitamins from reliable manufacturers that guarantee the quality of their products.

VIII. Conclusion:

The choice of vitamins for a child is a responsible process that requires an attentive approach and consult a doctor. Consider the age, state of health and needs of the child, as well as choose vitamins from reliable manufacturers and follow the recommended dosage. Remember that vitamins are an addition to a balanced diet, and not its replacement.