Vitamins and minerals are essential for children's growth, development, and overall health. Required vitamins encompass A, B, C, D, E, and K, while necessary minerals include calcium, iron, iodine, and zinc.

Many of these essential nutrients are present in everyday foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, healthy fats, and a range of animal and plant proteins. Nevertheless, there are instances where children may benefit from supplementary vitamins and minerals, particularly in specific situations.

When should kids be given additional supplements?

Experts recommend consuming multivitamins and minerals for children, especially under certain conditions, including:

Kids who aren’t eating regularly and don’t get balanced nutrition

In general, it is important for children to get adequate nutrition from the food they consume. A balanced and varied diet will provide most of the nutrients needed by the body.

Supplements may be necessary if the child is experiencing significant nutritional deficiencies or has certain health conditions that affect nutrient absorption. However, supplementation should be based on appropriate medical recommendations after a thorough assessment of the child's nutritional needs.

Apart from providing supplements, you still need to encourage your child to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, including protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vegetables, fruit and dairy products.

Kids who are picky eater

Every child might go through several stages of becoming picky eaters, depending on the intensity and length of the phase. See a pediatrician or nutritionist if your concerns about your child's food lead you to think about supplementing their diet.

A nutritionist or doctor can closely examine your child's food, keep an eye on their growth and development, and identify any serious nutritional deficiencies. Many times, they will offer recommendations for suitable supplements depending on the unique needs and characteristics of the child.

Kids with chronic health condition

Children with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or digestive problems often require special attention regarding diet and nutrition, including the administration of vitamin and mineral supplements.

In such cases, it is important to consult a pediatrician or nutritionist experienced in the management of the medical condition. They will be able to provide guidelines appropriate to the child's health condition and the therapy being carried out.

Children with impaired nutrient absorption or food intolerance also need a proper diet to be able to meet nutritional needs and avoid foods that worsen symptoms. Under certain conditions, doctors will also prescribe additional supplements to maximize the body's daily nutritional needs.

Kids who are on a vegan or vegetarian diet

All animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, are often avoided in a vegan diet. In the meantime, dairy and eggs are still permitted on a vegetarian diet. Children who are on a vegan or vegetarian diet must take extra vitamins to ensure they receive enough nourishment.

Kids who like to eat fast food and carbonated drinks

Fast food and carbonated drinks are often low in nutrients and heavy in added sugar, saturated fat, and calories, so children who enjoy them may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies.

It's important to remember that extra supplements cannot take the place of wholesome foods and shouldn't be used in place of a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Encourage them to consume a nutritionally balanced diet, even if they are given extra supplements.

Before administering a supplement to your child, you should think about its composition, dose, form, and reliable brand. More specifically, you should speak with a physician to acquire suggestions for vitamin and mineral supplements appropriate for your child's health.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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