Vitamins to improve appetite in children: Complete guidance
Understanding the problem: Why does the child eat badly?
Reduced appetite in children is a common problem that is concerned with parents. Before contacting vitamins, it is important to understand the causes of poor appetite. This will allow you to choose the most effective strategy and avoid unnecessary additives. The reasons can be diverse, and their understanding is the key to solving the problem.
Physiological factors:
- Age: The appetite in children changes with age. Babies and young children grow very quickly and, as a rule, have a good appetite. However, growth rate slows down in preschool age, and, accordingly, the need for calories decreases. This can lead to the fact that the child eats less than the parent expects.
- Growth rate: During periods of intensive growth, appetite usually increases. If the child is not in the phase of active growth now, his need for food can be less than usual.
- Diseases: A cold, influenza, tonsillitis, digestive disorders and other diseases can temporarily reduce appetite. This is especially true for diseases accompanied by temperature, sore throat or nausea.
- Medicines: Some drugs may have a side effect in the form of a decrease in appetite. Antibiotics, for example, can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora and affect digestion.
- Teeth: The teething of teeth in babies and young children is often accompanied by soreness and discomfort, which can lead to a refusal of food.
- Constipation: Constipation can cause a feeling of discomfort and reduce appetite.
Psychological factors:
- Stress: Stress, anxiety, changes in the daily routine, conflicts in the family or problems in kindergarten/school can affect the child’s appetite.
- Coercion to food: To force the child to eat against his will – counterproductive. This can lead to the formation of a negative attitude to food and strengthen the rejection of it.
- Parents anxiety: Parents anxiety about the child’s nutrition can be transmitted to him and aggravate the problem. It is important to remain calm and not focus on the refusal of food.
- Food preferences: Children often have their food preferences. If the child is constantly forced to eat what he does not like, this can lead to a refusal of food in general.
- Power struggle: Refusal of food can be a way for a child to show his independence and control the situation, especially during the crisis of three years.
- Lack of power mode: An unstable meal time and snacks between meals can reduce the child’s appetite during the main meals.
- The habit of sweet: Excessive use of sweets, juices and carbonated drinks can lead to a decrease in appetite, as the child feels full, but does not receive the necessary nutrients.
- Distraction during meals: Watching the TV, phone games or other distracting factors during eating can reduce the child’s attention to food and lead to the fact that he eats less.
Medical factors:
- Anemia: Iron deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, weakness and fatigue.
- Parasitic infections: The presence of parasites in the body can cause discomfort in the abdomen and reduce appetite.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, colitis or irritable bowel syndrome, can affect appetite.
- Endocrine diseases: In rare cases, a decrease in appetite can be associated with endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism.
- Allergies and food intolerance: Unlucky allergies or food intolerance can cause discomfort after eating and leading to a refusal of certain products or food in general.
- Zinc Deficit: Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, disturbance of taste and smell.
Before giving the child vitamins to improve appetite, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician in order to exclude medical reasons for reducing appetite and get recommendations on further action. The doctor may prescribe the necessary tests and studies to determine the cause of the problem and choose the most effective treatment.
The role of vitamins in appetite
Vitamins play an important role in various metabolic processes in the body, including those that affect appetite. Some vitamins and minerals are especially important for normal appetite and digestion. However, it should be remembered that vitamins are not a magic pill, and they will not solve the problem if it is associated with other factors, such as psychological problems or diseases.
B vitamins B:
B vitamins play a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, as well as in maintaining the health of the nervous system. B vitamins deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, fatigue, irritability and other problems.
- Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): It is necessary for carbohydrate metabolism and energy. Tiamine deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, weakness and nervousness.
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Participates in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as in maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to inflammation of the oral mucosa, cracks in the corners of the mouth and a decrease in appetite.
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): It is necessary for the metabolism of energy and maintaining the health of the nervous system. Niacin deficiency can lead to Pellagra, which is characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea and dementia, as well as a decrease in appetite.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): Participates in amino acid metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which regulate appetite and mood. Pyridoxine deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, irritability and nervousness.
- Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintaining the health of the nervous system. Cobalamine deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness and a decrease in appetite.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and is involved in the synthesis of collagen. It also helps to absorb iron, the deficiency of which can lead to a decrease in appetite. Vitamin C does not directly stimulate appetite, but supports the general health of the body, which indirectly contributes to normal appetite.
Vitamin D (calciferol):
Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium and maintaining bone health. It also plays a role in the immune system and other processes in the body. Recent studies show that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with an increased risk of developing various diseases, including some autoimmune diseases. Although the direct relationship between vitamin D and appetite has not been proven, maintaining the normal level of vitamin D is important for the general health and well -being of the child.
Zinc:
Zinc is an important trace element that is involved in many processes in the body, including growth, development, immune function and wound healing. It also plays an important role in taste perception and smell. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in appetite, violation of taste and smell, as well as to growth retardation.
Iron:
Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, weakness, fatigue and a decrease in appetite. Anemia is often accompanied by a decrease in appetite and a deterioration in the general condition of the child.
Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the health of the brain, heart and eye. They can also have an anti -inflammatory effect. Some studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can improve appetite in children, especially in those who suffer from inflammatory diseases.
How to choose vitamins to improve appetite in children?
The choice of vitamins to improve appetite in children is a responsible step that requires consulting a doctor. It is necessary to take into account the age of the child, his state of health, food habits and possible allergies.
Consultation with a doctor:
Before giving a child any vitamins, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, determine the reason for the decline in appetite and give recommendations for the choice of vitamins and dosage. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable consequences.
Child’s age:
The dosage of vitamins should correspond to the age of the child. Vitamins for babies differ from vitamins for preschool or school children. Incorrect dosage can be ineffective or even dangerous.
The composition of vitamins:
Choose vitamins that contain the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal dosages. Pay attention to the content of vitamins of group B, zinc and iron. Avoid vitamins that contain artificial dyes, flavors and sweeteners.
Output form:
Vitamins are produced in various forms, such as drops, chewing tablets, syrups and loafers. Choose the form of release, which is most suitable for your child. It is usually more convenient for young children to give vitamins in the form of drops or syrup, and older children are chewing tablets or loafers.
Manufacturer:
Choose vitamins from reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and use high -quality ingredients. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and compliance with security standards.
Reviews:
Before buying vitamins, read the reviews of other parents. This will help you get an idea of the effectiveness and safety of vitamins. However, remember that each child is individual, and what suits one child may not be suitable for another.
Compatibility with other drugs:
If the child takes any drugs, you need to make sure that vitamins are compatible with these drugs. Consult a doctor or pharmacist to avoid unwanted interactions.
The presence of allergies:
Before giving the child vitamins, make sure that he does not have allergies to any ingredients that make up vitamins. Carefully read the composition of vitamins and pay attention to the presence of allergens, such as lactose, gluten, soy or nuts.
Examples of vitamin complexes to improve appetite in children (with reservations)
It is important to remember that the examples given below are introductory in nature and are not a recommendation for use. Before using any vitamin complex, you need to consult a doctor!
On the market there are many vitamin complexes designed to improve appetite in children. Some of them contain only vitamins, while others contain vitamins and minerals. The choice of a particular vitamin complex should be based on the individual needs of the child and the recommendations of the doctor.
- Pikovit: Contains a complex of vitamins of group B, vitamin C, vitamin D and other vitamins. Available in the form of syrup and chewing tablets. Important: it contains sugar, which can be undesirable for some children.
- Multi-Tabs: A wide range of vitamins and minerals, presented in various forms for different ages. Important: you should choose a form suitable for the age of the child, and carefully study the composition for the presence of allergens.
- Vitamins: Chewing vitamins in the form of marmalade bears containing vitamins of group B, vitamin C, vitamin D and other vitamins. Important: they contain sugar and gelatin, which can be unacceptable for some children.
- Centerum Children’s: A complex vitamin-mineral complex intended for children from 4 years old. Important: it contains iron, so caution should be observed with simultaneous use with other drugs containing iron.
- Kinder® Multivitamam: Syrup with a complex of vitamins, designed specifically for children. Important: carefully study the composition for the presence of allergens.
Important:
- Always follow the instructions for use and do not exceed the recommended dosage.
- Keep vitamins in no way for children.
- Do not use vitamins with expired expiration date.
Increasing appetite naturally: tips for parents
In addition to vitamins, there are other ways to increase the appetite in the child in a natural way. These methods are aimed at improving food habits, creating a positive atmosphere during eating and stimulating appetite.
Diet:
- Set a clear diet: Offer food at the same time every day. This will help the child form a habit of regular eating and preparing the body for digestion.
- Avoid snacks between meals: Sunnings between meals can reduce the child’s appetite during the main meals. Offer snacks only in case of emergency and choose healthy options, such as fruits, vegetables or yogurt.
- Limit the use of sweet drinks and juices: Sweet drinks and juices contain many calories, but few nutrients. They can reduce the child’s appetite and lead to the development of caries. Invite your child to drink water or unsweetened tea.
Creating a positive atmosphere during food:
- Make a pleasant food time: Create a calm and relaxing atmosphere during meals. Avoid quarrels and talking on unpleasant topics at the table.
- Attract your child to cook food: Let your child help you in cooking. This will help him be interested in food and feel more responsible for his choice.
- Offer a variety of products: Offer the child a variety of products from different groups. This will help him get all the necessary nutrients and avoid deficiency of vitamins and minerals.
- Serv the food beautifully: Beautifully served food can attract the attention of the child and stimulate his appetite. Use bright colors, unusual shapes and creative jewelry.
- Do not force the child to eat: To force the child to eat against his will – counterproductive. This can lead to the formation of a negative attitude to food and strengthen the rejection of it. Invite your child to try at least a little food, but do not insist if he refuses.
- Encourage the child for trying new products: Praise the child for trying a new product, even if he did not like him. This will help him feel more confident in himself and more open to new tastes.
Stimulation of appetite:
- Physical activity: Regular physical activity helps stimulate appetite. Invite your child to play in the fresh air, play sports or just walk.
- Small portions: Offer your child small portions of food. This will help to avoid overeating and will not scare away the child with a lot of food on the plate.
- Snakes before meals: Offer your child a small appetizer before meals, for example, fruits or vegetables. This will help stimulate appetite and prepare the body for digestion.
- Use herbs and spices: Herbs and spices can improve the taste of food and stimulate appetite. Add them to dishes in moderate quantities.
- Offer food that the child loves: Offer your child food that he loves, at least sometimes. This will help him enjoy food and stimulate his appetite.
Conclusion: an integrated approach to improving appetite
Improving appetite in a child is a comprehensive process that requires patience and understanding. There is no universal solution that is suitable for all children. It is important to consider the individual characteristics of the child, his state of health and food habits.
Before giving the child vitamins to improve appetite, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to exclude medical reasons for reducing appetite and get recommendations on further actions.
In addition to vitamins, it is important to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, establish a clear diet, create a positive atmosphere during meals and stimulate appetite naturally.
The combination of all these factors will help improve the child’s appetite and provide him with the necessary amount of nutrients for healthy growth and development.
It is important to remember:
- Consultation with a doctor is a prerequisite before taking vitamins.
- Vitamins are not a replacement for a healthy diet.
- Patience and understanding are key success factors.
In conclusion, an improvement of appetite in a child is a task that requires a comprehensive approach and close cooperation of the parents and the doctor. With the right strategy and sufficient patience, you can help the child form healthy food habits and enjoy food.