Reporting for duty: all children of the house to the kitchen for their daily dose of Flinstones vitamins. We can practically taste the chalky and sweet texture!
The iconic vitamins of our childhood were considered staples in our nutritional health. But how much did our parents know about these vitamins?
Did the children in our household all need the same vitamin dosage? At what age did we graduate from this vitamin regimen?
We all want the best for our children and ensuring that they have the vitamins and minerals is part of creating optimal health. With many different options for vitamins, it can be difficult to know what to look for.
Here are the top 5 factors to consider when choosing children’s vitamins.
1. Diet and Nutrition
For many children, a healthy and well-balanced diet negates the need for supplementary vitamins. Eating fruits, grains, dairy, vegetables, and protein, ensures that your child absorbs the right amount of nutrition.
However, there are many exceptions. Some children and certain circumstances require supplemental nutrients.
There are some important factors to consider. Does the child follow a vegan or vegetarian diet? Do they have medical conditions that inhibit the absorption of nutrients? Do they have intestinal issues? Under these circumstances, children run the risk of deficiencies in calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamin B.
2. Age
Depending on your age, your body processes nutrients in a different way. Due to biological differences in every stage of life, your dietary and supplement requirements will change.
Children of all ages and stages also have different nutritional needs. In infancy, breast-fed babies might require a vitamin D supplement as breast milk alone is an insufficient source. The right supplements at the right time will provide maximum benefits and can help kids develop stronger bodily systems.
There are also supplements that are designed to help your child focus, support memory, and improve behavior. Best of all these products are plant-based, gluten-free, and sugar-free.
3. Your Family History
Genetics can also play a role in how your child’s body absorbs certain nutrients. Understanding your family’s health history will give you insight into what your child may need. Certain conditions to consider are:
- food allergies
- autoimmune diseases
- lactose intolerance
- celiac disease
- short bowel syndrome
These all of these can be hereditary and can lead to poor nutrient absorption.
4. A Trusted Manufacturer
To ensure that your children’s vitamins are coming from a trusted source and a reliable manufacturer, it is important to do your research.
Recent studies have shown that the classic chewable vitamins and gummies were misleading in their labels. Not only did they contain varying amounts of the actual vitamins, but they were also filled with ingredients such as corn syrup, sucrose, and gelatin.
5. The Right Dosage
While we all need the same nutrients, children and adults require different amounts.
Certain vitamins like vitamin A, B12, zinc, and iron, are important for brain development as children grow. In order to build strong bones, they also need calcium and vitamin D.
Although they may need a smaller amount, the right dosage of minerals and vitamins is important for growth and development in the early stages of childhood.
The Bottom Line on Choosing Children’s Vitamins
Deciding on what is best for your children can often feel more like art than science. Consider these five factors the next time you are choosing children’s vitamins and know that you are doing your best!
For more information and awesome advice on vitamins and supplements for your children, keep visiting our blog!