As children grow and develop, it’s important for them to get all the nutrients they need to support their health and well-being. In general, children can meet their nutritional needs through a healthy and varied diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. However, in some cases, supplements may be necessary to help ensure that children are getting all the nutrients they need. Some reasons why children may need supplements include picky eating, special dietary needs, medical conditions, and increased nutrient needs during growth and development
We will take you through the why’s and what’s of it all. Keep reading!!
Why Do Children Need Supplements?
There are several reasons why children may need supplements. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Nutrient deficiencies:
Children may not always get all the nutrients they need from their diet, especially if they have picky eating habits or follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Supplementing with certain nutrients, such as iron or vitamin D, can help ensure that children get the nutrients they need for optimal growth and development. - Medical conditions:
Children with certain medical conditions, such as food allergies or intolerances, may need supplements to compensate for nutrients that are missing from their diet. - Poor appetite:
Children who have a poor appetite or difficulty eating due to medical conditions, such as cancer or Crohn’s disease, may need supplements to help them meet their nutritional needs. - Athletic performance:
Some children who participate in high-level sports or other physical activities may benefit from supplements to support their training and performance.
It is good to remember that supplements could always be used as an additional source of nutrients as and when necessary and not as a substitute for a healthy diet, especially for children.
What type of supplements do children normally need?
The type of supplements that children need highly depends on their individual needs and circumstances. Some common supplements that may be recommended for children include:
- Multivitamins:
Children may benefit from a daily multivitamin to ensure that they are getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for optimal growth and development. - Omega-3 fatty acids:
These essential fats are important for brain health and may be helpful for children with learning or behavioral problems. - Iron:
Children who are at risk for iron deficiency, such as infants, vegetarians, and adolescents, may benefit from an iron supplement. - Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is important for bone health and may be necessary for children who do not get enough sun exposure or who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. - Probiotics:
These beneficial bacteria may help to improve digestive health and boost the immune system.
In conclusion, children may need supplements to help meet their nutritional needs in certain situations. Some common reasons why children may need supplements include nutrient deficiencies, medical conditions, poor appetite, and athletic performance. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen for a child and to ensure that supplements are used as an additional source of nutrients, rather than a substitute for a healthy diet. While supplements can be an important tool for supporting children’s growth and development, it is always best to try to get the nutrients children to need from a varied and balanced diet first.