Nutrition is essential to the growth and development of children, and a well-balanced diet is crucial to their overall health. However, some children may not be able to meet their daily nutritional requirements from food alone.

For this reason, dietary supplements may be necessary. In this article, we will discuss the groups of children who may need dietary supplements and how to evaluate them.

Infants and Young Children

Infants and young children have very high nutritional requirements because they are growing rapidly. Breast milk or formula provides the necessary nutrients for the first 4 to 6 months of life.

However, after this period, additional nutrients may be needed. Vitamin D supplements are often recommended, as breastfed infants may not get enough from breast milk, and formula-fed infants often do not drink enough fortified formula.

Iron supplements may also be necessary, particularly for infants who were born premature or have low birth weight. These infants may not have enough iron stored in their bodies to last them until they can eat iron-rich foods.

Vegetarian and Vegan Children

Vegetarian and vegan diets can be very healthy, but they may not provide enough of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. Vitamin B12 is found naturally only in animal products, so vegetarian or vegan children may need a supplement.

Iron and calcium can be found in plant-based foods, but they are not as easily absorbed by the body as the versions found in animal products.

It is important for vegetarian and vegan children to eat a wide variety of foods to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. Supplements may be necessary if they are not able to meet their requirements from food alone.

Picky Eaters

Some children are picky eaters and refuse to eat certain foods. While this is often a normal stage of development, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Picky eaters may not get enough of certain nutrients, such as iron and vitamin D.

In these cases, dietary supplements may be necessary to ensure the child is getting enough of these nutrients.

Children with Medical Conditions

Children with certain medical conditions may also need dietary supplements. For example, children with celiac disease may need vitamin and mineral supplements, as their bodies may not be able to absorb certain nutrients from food.

Children with cystic fibrosis may also need supplements to ensure they are getting enough calories and nutrients to maintain their weight and growth.

Children with Food Allergies or Intolerances

Children with food allergies or intolerances may need to restrict certain foods from their diet. This can make it harder for them to meet their nutritional requirements, and dietary supplements may be necessary.

For example, children with a milk allergy may need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements to ensure they are getting enough of these nutrients.

Overweight or Obese Children

Overweight or obese children may not be getting enough of certain nutrients, as they may not be eating a well-balanced diet.

However, it is important for these children to lose weight in a healthy way, and dietary supplements should not be used as a quick fix. Instead, they may need to work with a registered dietitian to develop a healthy, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

Evaluating the Need for Dietary Supplements

If you think your child may need a dietary supplement, it is important to talk to their healthcare provider. They can evaluate your child’s diet and nutritional status and recommend any necessary supplements.

It is also important not to rely solely on supplements or to give your child megadoses of vitamins or minerals, as this can be harmful. Instead, focus on providing a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods.

In Conclusion

Dietary supplements can be a useful tool for ensuring children get all the nutrients they need, but they should not be used as a replacement for a well-balanced diet.

Talk to your child’s healthcare provider if you have any concerns about their nutritional status or if you think they may need a supplement.