Do Kids Need Multivitamins?
Lindsay Knake
| 3 min read
Many adults will remember the chalky, fruit-flavored Flintstones vitamins or a gummy version of a kids’ multivitamin they were given as children.
Multivitamins may seem like an easy way to ensure kids get the vitamins and minerals they need, but are they necessary? Most children who eat a nutritious and balanced diet do not need multivitamins. In healthy children, it’s best to get minerals and vitamins through a wide range of healthy foods.
Vitamins and supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, meaning manufacturers do not need to prove the safety or claims of the products they sell.
Here are foods that contain the vitamins and minerals your child needs to grow strong and healthy:
Calcium
Calcium builds healthy bones and teeth. It’s found in leafy greens; dairy such as yogurt, cheese, and milk; and fortified foods such as some cereals.
Vitamin D
This vitamin also helps to build strong bones, and it helps to maintain a healthy immune system. Vitamin D is in eggs, fish, and fortified foods such as cereal and milk.
Iron
Iron helps oxygenate the body and is found in animal products, leafy greens, some beans, and tofu.
B12
Vitamin B12 helps to develop the brain, and it’s found in animal products and fortified foods such as cereals and dairy products.
When would a child need a multivitamin?
Always discuss with your healthcare provider before adding any medications, including multivitamins, to your child’s daily routine. However, there may be cases in which a child would benefit from a multivitamin, including:
- The child has health conditions that prevent nutrient absorption.
- They have a delay in development or physical growth.
- The child is a picky eater.
- They eat a limited or restricted diet.
If you want to ensure your child is getting the nutrients they need, multivitamins can help. A children’s multivitamin should include calcium, vitamin D, and iron, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If your child has allergies, please check to see if the vitamins contain any allergens such as eggs, dairy, and nuts.
Only purchase age-appropriate multivitamins and supplements to ensure your child is getting the vitamins and minerals in safe doses. Large doses can cause loose stool or stomach problems, according to the Mayo Clinic. A kids’ multivitamin should not contain more than 100% of the daily value of vitamins and minerals.
As kids’ vitamins can look and taste like candy, it’s important to ensure they are stored out of reach of children.
Talk to your physician about a safe and effective supplement for your child. Additionally, you can look for products approved by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International, which means they are tested and certified by an independent third party.
Image: Getty Images
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