Experts say a varied diet is usually enough for healthy children, while supplements should be reserved for specific medical or nutritional needs and given only with professional advice.
Most healthy children get the vitamins and minerals they need from a varied diet and do not usually require a daily supplement, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and Johns Hopkins Medicine. A balanced menu with dairy, fruit, vegetables, protein and whole grains is generally enough to meet basic nutritional needs, provided children are eating well and growing as expected.
That changes in some situations. Johns Hopkins Medicine says supplements may be useful for breastfed infants who need vitamin D, and for premature babies who may require multivitamins that include iron. Other children who may need extra support include those with very limited diets, poor appetite or chronic illnesses that affect how the body absorbs nutrients.
Several nutrients are especially important in childhood development, including vitamins A, B, C and D, along with calcium and iron. The National Institutes of Health says iron plays a key role in oxygen transport and energy production, while the Academy of Pediatrics notes that too much vitamin A, C or D can cause harmful side effects. Excess iron can also be dangerous, which is why doctors caution against using supplements casually or in large doses.
Experts say parents should speak with a paediatrician before giving any vitamin or mineral product to a child, so the need and dosage can be assessed properly. Cleveland Clinic and HealthyChildren.org both advise families to choose supplements only when there is a clear reason, and to keep all bottles out of children’s reach because some products can be harmful if taken accidentally or in the wrong amount.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
