Vitamins - Children s and multivitamins
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Supplements.
Vitamins ?" Children and Multivitamins
Summary
Many parents believe their children have a reasonably healthy diet. When unsure, they often resort to giving multivitamins. While generally beneficial, it's essential to exercise caution, especially with children's vitamins that resemble candy.
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Article
Many parents assume their children eat fairly healthily, but when uncertain, they often rely on multivitamins. While this isn't inherently negative, it's crucial to note that many children perceive vitamins as candy, especially now that they're available in gummy, gumball, and fun cartoon shapes. This can be dangerous if children access them unsupervised, as they might consume more than the recommended amount. This is particularly concerning with multivitamins containing iron, which can cause overdose.
If you suspect your child has ingested too many vitamins, promptly contact your local poison control center and seek emergency medical attention. An overdose of multivitamins with iron can lead to severe illness or even be life-threatening. Therefore, keep all vitamins and medications out of children's reach.
Generic multivitamins are suitable if you feel your child needs them, but generally, children obtain most of their vitamins through their diet. For children with specific dietary restrictions?"like those who can't consume dairy?"it's important to seek calcium from alternative sources. Consulting your child's pediatrician is always recommended for tailored advice.
Even if your child's diet is lacking for a week, avoid giving more than one vitamin a day. Excessive intake of any one vitamin can hinder the absorption of others. For example, too much calcium can impede iron absorption. You may continue providing vitamins through the teenage years, as children don't always make the healthiest food choices.
Be aware of differing opinions about iron in children's vitamins. Some experts advocate for iron supplements, while others advise against them. My own child showed signs of low iron in infancy, and under medical advice, we provided iron-fortified vitamins, which improved his health. Always consult your doctor about iron supplements.
Excessive iron can lead to a condition called hemochromatosis, where the body cannot properly utilize and expel iron, potentially resulting in severe health issues and even death.
Calcium is vital for building strong bones and muscles. Children who consume dairy products typically meet their calcium needs. For those who don't like dairy, calcium-fortified juices, cereals, and vitamins can suffice.
Most children receive adequate fluoride from treated water, bottled water, or toothpaste. Avoid giving fluoride supplements without a doctor's guidance, as too much fluoride can permanently stain teeth, negating the benefits of fluoride treatments.
Infant multivitamins are usually in liquid form and delivered with an eyedropper, typically containing vitamins A, C, D, and sometimes iron and other nutrients like thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and B-12.
Children's multivitamins often come in chewable forms shaped like animals or cartoon characters. Some are available as gummies or gumballs. If your child resists taking vitamins, consider options resembling their favorite characters or in gumball form. Always supervise your child when giving vitamins to prevent overconsumption. Personally, I administer the vitamin to my child rather than allowing them to do it independently.
While vitamins can compensate for dietary shortcomings, it's safer to consult a pediatrician before adjusting your child's diet. Fun-shaped vitamins are appealing, but children might see them as candy, so store them out of reach or lock them away.
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