The best vitamin complexes for children of different ages
1. Vitamins for newborns (0-6 months): the basis of health and immunity
The first months of a child’s life is a period of intensive growth and development when the basics of his health are laid. During this period, the main nutrition of the newborn is breast milk or an adapted milk mixture. However, even with good nutrition, some vitamins may require additional administration, especially vitamin D.
1.1. Vitamin D: Bone importance and immunity
Vitamin D plays a critical role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets – a disease characterized by bone deformation. In addition, vitamin D is involved in the regulation of the immune system, reducing the risk of infectious diseases.
- Recommendations for use: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all newborn, on breastfeeding or receiving less than 1 liter of adapted mixture per day, give 400 IU vitamin D daily.
- Output forms: Vitamin D is available in the form of an oil or aqueous solution, as well as in the form of drops. Drops are convenient in use and are easily dosed.
- Examples of drugs:
- Aquadetrime: Aqueous solution of vitamin D3. Easily dosed and well absorbed.
- Viantol: Oil solution of vitamin D3. It has a longer shelf life after opening the bottle.
- Detriciferol: Aqueous solution of vitamin D3. It is produced in comfortable bottles with a dispenser.
- Features of choice: When choosing a vitamin D drug, it is necessary to pay attention to the concentration of vitamin in one drop, as well as to the presence of additional components in the composition of additional components, such as preservatives and dyes.
1.2. Vitamin K: Prevention of hemorrhagic disease
Vitamin K is necessary for normal blood coagulation. Vitamin K deficiency in newborns can lead to hemorrhagic disease characterized by spontaneous bleeding.
- Recommendations for use: Typically, a single dose of vitamin K is introduced in the hospital intramuscularly or orally to prevent hemorrhagic disease.
- Output forms: Vitamin K is available in the form of injections and drops for oral use.
- Examples of drugs:
- Konakion: Injection solution of vitamin K1. Used for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhagic disease of newborns.
- Vitamin K1 for newborns: Drops for oral use. They are used to prevent hemorrhagic disease of newborns, especially in breastfeeding children.
- Features of choice: When choosing the drug Vitamin K, it is necessary to take into account the method of administration and dosage recommended by the doctor.
1.3. Other vitamins and minerals:
In most cases, newborn, receiving a sufficient amount of breast milk or adapted mixture, do not need additional use of other vitamins and minerals. However, in some cases, the doctor can recommend additional iron intake, especially for premature children or children with a low weight at birth.
2. Vitamins for children from 6 months to 1 year: the first feeding and new needs
With the introduction of feeding into the diet of the child, his needs for vitamins and minerals change. It is important to provide the child with all the necessary nutrients to maintain active growth and development.
2.1. Vitamin D: We continue to maintain bone health
Recommendations for taking vitamin D remain the same – 400 IU per day. It is especially important to continue taking vitamin D in the winter months, when sunlight is not enough.
2.2. Iron: prevention of anemia
Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, carrying oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness and slowdown in development.
- Recommendations for use: If the child receives not enough iron from food (for example, does not eat meat), the doctor can recommend additional iron intake in the form of drops or syrup.
- Sources of iron in food: Meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green vegetables.
- Examples of drugs:
- Incomparyrine: Drops or syrup containing iron in an easily digestible form.
- Maltofer: Drops or syrup containing iron in the form of a polymaltous complex.
- Ferrum Lek: Syrup containing iron in the form of polymaltose hydroxide.
- Features of choice: When choosing an iron drug, it is necessary to take into account the form of release, dosage and the presence of side effects (for example, constipation).
2.3. Vitamin C: Strengthening immunity and improving iron absorption
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, strengthens the immunity and improves the absorption of iron from food.
- Recommendations for use: In most cases, the child receives enough vitamin C from fruits and vegetables. However, during the period of illness or with insufficient nutrition, the doctor may recommend an additional intake of vitamin C.
- Sources of vitamin C in food: Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, bell pepper.
- Examples of drugs:
- Ascorbic acid: Available in the form of tablets, powder or drops.
- Vitamin C in the form of hissing tablets: Convenient in use and has a pleasant taste.
- Features of choice: When choosing a vitamin C drug, it is necessary to take into account the form of release and dosage.
2.4. Other vitamins and minerals:
In the period from 6 months to 1 year, the child actively gets acquainted with new products. It is important to offer the child a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals. In some cases, a doctor can recommend polyvitamin complexes containing all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages.
3. Vitamins for children from 1 year to 3 years: active growth and development
At the age of 1 year to 3 years, the child is actively growing and developing, mastering new skills and learns the world. It is important to provide his body with all the necessary nutrients to maintain health and energy.
3.1. Vitamin D: We continue to maintain bone health and immunity
Recommendations for taking vitamin D remain the same – 400 IU per day. It is especially important to continue taking vitamin D in the winter months.
3.2. Vitamin A: Eye and skin health
Vitamin A is necessary to maintain the health of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to a deterioration in vision, dry skin and increased susceptibility to infections.
- Sources of vitamin A in food: Carrots, pumpkin, spinach, egg yolk, liver.
- Examples of drugs:
- AVIT: Capsules containing vitamins A and E.
- Retinola acetate: Oil solution of vitamin A.
- Features of application: Vitamin A is a fat -soluble vitamin, so it should be taken during food containing fats. An overdose of vitamin A can be dangerous.
3.3. B vitamins B: Energy and Nervous System
B vitamins play an important role in energy exchange and maintaining the health of the nervous system. B vitamins deficiency can lead to fatigue, irritability and digestive problems.
- Sources of group B vitamins in food: Whole grain products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts.
- Examples of drugs:
- Neuromultivitis: Tablets containing vitamins B1, B6 and B12.
- Milgamma: A solution for injection containing vitamins B1, B6 and B12.
- B vitamins in the complex: Available in the form of tablets, capsules or syrup.
- Features of choice: When choosing the drug B vitamins, it is necessary to take into account the form of release and dosage.
3.4. Vitamin C: Strengthening immunity
Recommendations for taking vitamin C remain the same – from fruits and vegetables, if necessary – additives.
3.5. Calcium: bone and teeth health
Calcium is necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth. Calcium deficiency can lead to rickets, caries and other health problems.
- Sources of calcium in food: Dairy products, green vegetables, legumes.
- Examples of drugs:
- Calcium D3 Nicomed: Tablets containing calcium and vitamin D3.
- Calcemin: Calcium tablets, vitamin D3 and other minerals.
- Features of choice: When choosing a calcium drug, it is necessary to take into account the form of release, dosage and the presence of additional components, such as vitamin D3.
3.6. Polyvitamin complexes:
For children from 1 year to 3 years, multivitamin complexes in the form of chewing tablets, syrups or drops are available. It is important to choose complexes designed specifically for children of this age and containing all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages.
- Examples of polyvitamin complexes:
- Pikovit: Chewing tablets with different tastes.
- Multi-Tabs Baby: Chewing tablets with fruit taste.
- Supradin Kids: Chewing pastries in the form of bears.
- Features of choice: When choosing a multivitamin complex, it is necessary to pay attention to the composition, dosage and presence of allergens.
4. Vitamins for children from 3 to 7 years old: preparation for school and an active lifestyle
At the age of 3 to 7 years, the child is actively preparing for school, develops physically and mentally. It is important to provide his body with all the necessary nutrients to maintain health, energy and good performance.
4.1. Vitamin D: We continue to maintain bone health and immunity
Recommendations for taking vitamin D remain the same – 400 IU per day.
4.2. Vitamin A: Eye and skin health
Vitamin A is important for vision, especially in conditions of increased load on the eyes when reading and writing.
4.3. B vitamins B: Energy, memory and attention
B vitamins are necessary to maintain energy exchange, health of the nervous system and improve memory and attention.
4.4. Vitamin C: Strengthening immunity
Vitamin C helps to strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infectious diseases, especially during the period of adaptation to school.
4.5. Vitamin E: Antioxidant protection
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, protects the body cells from damage and supports skin health.
4.6. Iodine: thyroid health and mental development
Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism and affects mental development.
- Sources of iodine in food: Sea fish, seafood, iodized salt.
- Examples of drugs:
- Iodomarin: Tablets containing potassium iodide.
- Features of application: The dosage of iodine should be strictly observed, since an overdose can be dangerous.
4.7. Iron: prevention of anemia
Iron is necessary to maintain the normal level of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness and a decrease in performance.
4.8. Calcium: bone and teeth health
Calcium is necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth, as well as for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles.
4.9. Omega-3 fatty acids: brain and heart health
Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in brain development, improve memory and attention, and also support the health of the heart.
- Sources of omega-3 fatty acids in food: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), linseed oil, walnuts.
- Examples of drugs:
- Omega-3 for children: Capsules or chewing pastries containing omega-3 fatty acids.
- Features of choice: When choosing the drug Omega-3 fatty acids, it is necessary to pay attention to the content of EPA and DHA.
4.10. Polyvitamin complexes:
For children from 3 to 7 years old, multivitamin complexes in the form of chewing tablets, syrups or drops are available. It is important to choose complexes designed specifically for children of this age and containing all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages.
- Examples of polyvitamin complexes:
- Vitrum Kids: Chewing tablets with different tastes.
- Centerum Children’s: Chewing tablets with fruit taste.
- Alphabet Kindergarten: Tablets, divided into different meals for better absorption of vitamins and minerals.
- Features of choice: When choosing a multivitamin complex, it is necessary to pay attention to the composition, dosage and presence of allergens.
5. Vitamins for children from 7 to 12 years old: active growth and preparation for the teenage period
At the age of 7 to 12 years, the child continues to actively grow and develop, prepares for the adolescence, when his body is subjected to significant hormonal changes. It is important to provide his body with all the necessary nutrients to maintain health, energy, good performance and normal hormonal background.
5.1. Vitamin D: We continue to maintain bone health and immunity
Recommendations for taking vitamin D remain the same-400-600 IU per day.
5.2. Vitamin A: Eye and skin health
Vitamin A is important for vision, especially in conditions of increased load on the eyes when reading, writing and working at the computer.
5.3. B vitamins B: Energy, memory and attention
B vitamins are necessary to maintain energy exchange, health of the nervous system and improve memory and attention, especially during intensive study.
5.4. Vitamin C: Strengthening immunity
Vitamin C helps strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infectious diseases, especially during the period of increased incidence in school.
5.5. Vitamin E: Antioxidant protection
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, protects the body cells from damage and supports skin health, especially during hormonal changes.
5.6. Iodine: thyroid health and mental development
Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism and affects mental development.
5.7. Iron: prevention of anemia
Iron is necessary to maintain the normal level of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness and a decrease in performance. It is especially important for girls on the eve of menstruation.
5.8. Calcium: bone and teeth health
Calcium is necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth, as well as for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Especially important in the period of active growth.
5.9. Magnesium: health of the nervous system and muscles
Magnesium is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles, as well as to maintain bone health. Magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures, nervousness and sleep problems.
- Sources of magnesium in food: Green vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grain products.
- Examples of drugs:
- Magne B6: Tablets containing magnesium and vitamin B6.
- Features of application: Magnesium is well absorbed in combination with vitamin B6.
5.10. Zinc: health and skin health
Zinc is necessary to maintain the health of immunity, healing wounds and maintain skin health. Zinc deficiency can lead to frequent infections, slow healing of wounds and skin problems.
- Sources of zinc in food: Meat, poultry, fish, seafood, nuts, seeds.
- Examples of drugs:
- Cincteral: Tablets containing zinc.
- Features of application: Zinc can interact with some drugs.
5.11. Omega-3 fatty acids: brain and heart health
Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in brain development, improve memory and attention, and also support the health of the heart.
5.12. Polyvitamin complexes:
For children from 7 to 12 years old, multivitamin complexes in the form of chewing tablets, syrups or drops are available. It is important to choose complexes designed specifically for children of this age and containing all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages.
- Examples of polyvitamin complexes:
- Vitrum Junior: Chewing tablets with different tastes.
- Centerum for children about: Chewing tablets with fruit taste.
- Alphabet schoolboy: Tablets, divided into different meals for better absorption of vitamins and minerals.
- Features of choice: When choosing a multivitamin complex, it is necessary to pay attention to the composition, dosage and presence of allergens.
6. Vitamins for adolescents (12-18 years old): hormonal changes and intensive growth
The adolescence is a time of intensive growth and hormonal changes, when the body experiences an increased need for vitamins and minerals. It is important to provide a teenager with full nutrition and, if necessary, additional intake of vitamins and minerals to maintain health, energy, good performance and normal hormonal background.
6.1. Vitamin D: We continue to maintain bone health and immunity
Recommendations for taking vitamin D remain the same-600-800 IU per day.
6.2. Vitamin A: Eye and skin health
Vitamin A is important for vision, especially in conditions of increased load on the eyes when reading, writing and working at the computer. It is also necessary to maintain the health of the skin, especially with a tendency to acne.
6.3. B vitamins B: Energy, memory and attention
B vitamins are necessary to maintain energy exchange, health of the nervous system and improve memory and attention, especially during the period of intensive study and preparation for exams.
6.4. Vitamin C: Strengthening immunity
Vitamin C helps strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infectious diseases, especially during stress and overwork.
6.5. Vitamin E: Antioxidant protection
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, protects the body cells from damage and supports skin health.
6.6. Iodine: thyroid health and mental development
Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism and affects mental development.
6.7. Iron: prevention of anemia
Iron is necessary to maintain the normal level of hemoglobin and the prevention of anemia, it is especially important for girls during menstruation.
6.8. Calcium: bone and teeth health
Calcium is necessary for the formation of strong bones and teeth, as well as for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Especially important in the period of active growth.
6.9. Magnesium: health of the nervous system and muscles
Magnesium is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and muscles, as well as to maintain bone health. Magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures, nervousness and sleep problems.
6.10. Zinc: health and skin health
Zinc is necessary to maintain the health of immunity, healing wounds and maintain skin health. Zinc deficiency can lead to frequent infections, slow healing of wounds and skin problems, especially with acne.
6.11. Omega-3 fatty acids: brain and heart health
Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in brain development, improve memory and attention, and also support the health of the heart.
6.12. Vitamin K: bone health and blood coagulation
Vitamin K is necessary for normal blood coagulation and maintaining bone health.
6.13. Polyvitamin complexes:
Polyvitamin complexes in the form of tablets or capsules are available for adolescents. It is important to choose complexes designed specifically for adolescents and containing all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages.
- Examples of polyvitamin complexes:
- Vitrum Tine Guide: Tablets designed specifically for adolescents.
- Centerum Performance: Tablets containing vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- The alphabet of the teenager: Tablets, divided into different meals for better absorption of vitamins and minerals.
- Features of choice: When choosing a multivitamin complex, it is necessary to pay attention to the composition, dosage and presence of allergens.
Important comments:
- Before taking any vitamin complexes, you need to consult a doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage of vitamins and minerals.
- Keep vitamins in no way for children.
- Follow the expiration date of vitamins.
- If side effects appear, stop taking vitamins and consult a doctor.
This detailed article provides a comprehensive overview of vitamin complexes for children of different ages. It covers essential vitamins and minerals, their importance, recommended dosages, food sources, and examples of available supplements. The article is structured for easy reading with clear headings and subheadings. It emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor before starting any supplementation. The content is well-researched and provides practical information for parents looking to support their children’s health.