Vitamins for Your Child

75% of children only get between 75-80% of the RDA for all vitamins and minerals. This means their daily diet is still inadequate. It is important to get as many vitamins and minerals in their diet by eating fruits and vegetables, but most children need some supplementation. For this reason, a quality daily multiple vitamin and mineral complex for children is an important base. A children’s formula without added sugar, high fructose corn syrup, or other added fillers is important. 

Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for a child’s growth and development.  Fish oil contains two compounds called EPA and DHA.  DHA is an essential fatty acid needed for brain growth and development.  Think of DHA as brain food.  A quality supplement is a must; poor quality fish oil may contain unwanted contaminants.  EPA/DHA deficiency has been linked to numerous childhood problems, including ADHD and autism. The amount of fish oil taken per day depends on the supplement and the age of child, it should be labeled for children and should say on the label the amount to take based on age/weight of the child.

Vitamin D supplementation is also important in childhood, particularly for those of us who live in northern climates.  Our bodies can make vitamin D from sunlight, but the use of sunscreens and the limited amount of quality sunlight we get in northern climates can prohibit our bodies from making enough. Vitamin D deficiency in childhood has been linked to numerous autoimmune disorders, including type 1 diabetes and Crohn’s disease, certain cancers, as well as osteopenia/osteoporosis in children.  Recent studies also clearly show a link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of pediatric viral respiratory infection. Infants need 400-1000 IU vitamin D per day, children over 2 years of age 1,000-2,000 IU/day.

Along with supplementation, a quality diet is a must for our growing children.  Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meat, and whole grains are fuel for your child’s growth and development. A simple way to get a child to eat more fruits and vegetables is more exposure to them; going to the farmer’s market, seeing mom and dad make healthy choices, and cultivating a garden in your own backyard are ways to start.  If fresh vegetables are in short supply, frozen fruits and vegetables are also a quality option. Avoid canned products when possible, metals from them can leach into the food, and many canned fruits/vegetables have a toxic chemical called BPA in the lining. Making healthy choices along with some supplementation can promote your child’s proper growth and development and help ward off other serious diseases.

Our offices carry a variety of high quality nutritional supplements for both you and your child.  Speak to your chiropractor about the best recommendations for you and your family.