As parents, it is our primary responsibility to ensure the proper growth and development of our children.

Along with providing them with healthy diet and physical activities, supplementing their diet with necessary vitamins and minerals can help them to maintain their overall health.

What are Dietary Supplements?

Dietary supplements are products that are taken orally and contain one or more dietary ingredients like vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, or other ingredients used to help supplement a child’s diet.

Supplements are available in different forms like capsules, tablets, gummies, and liquids. They are not intended to replace a healthy diet; instead, they act as a supplement to the diet when children lack any specific nutrient(s).

Why are Dietary Supplements Important for Kids?

Children’s bodies require vitamins and minerals to perform essential functions that promote growth, development, and overall health. A healthy diet and physical activities typically provide children with the necessary nutrients.

Still, sometimes children’s lifestyle or diet may fall short in providing their body with the necessary nutrients that are crucial for their growth and development.

Some common reasons that can lead to nutrient deficiencies in children are:.

Vegetarian or vegan diet
Picky eater
Allergic to certain foods
Avoidance of foods
Following a strict diet

Supplements can help to fill the nutrient gap and ensure children get all the nutrients their body requires, even when they face any of the reasons that can lead to nutrient deficiencies in kids.

The Benefits of Dietary Supplements for Kids

1. Improved Immune Functioning

Vitamins and minerals have an essential role in strengthening our immune system that guards our body against harmful pathogens.

For children, a strong immune system is essential, particularly during the developmental years when they are exposed to various bacterial and viral infections. Vitamin C, D, and E, zinc, and selenium are known for their ability to boost the immune system function.

2. Improved Bone and Teeth Health

Children’s bones and teeth are constantly growing, and thus it is essential to provide them with the necessary nutrients like Vitamin D, K, calcium, and magnesium that play a crucial role in bone development.

These nutrients help to support healthy bone growth, reducing the risk of fractures and bone diseases.

3. Enhanced Cognitive Functioning

Nutrition plays an essential role in brain development in children. Certain vitamins like B-complex vitamins, iron and zinc have been found to promote brain development, improving memory, learning, and cognitive processing speed.

4. Improved Mood and Emotional Well-being

Omega-3s and vitamin D are known to play a crucial role in managing mood and behavior, enhancing cognitive function, and improving mental well-being.

Children who suffer from mood swings, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can benefit greatly from taking dietary supplements containing such nutrients.

Some Common Dietary Supplements for Children

1. Multivitamins

Multivitamins contain a mix of essential vitamins and minerals. They help to fill any nutrient gaps in children’s diets and promote overall well-being.

2. Iron

Iron is required to produce hemoglobin in our body, which carries oxygen to different parts of the body. Children who have iron-deficiency anaemia may require iron supplements to help reduce symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, and irritability.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 is essential for brain development, improving learning, memory, and behavior. Children who do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids through their diet can benefit from supplements.

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for bone and teeth health, immune functioning, and cognitive development. Children who do not get enough sunlight or vitamin D-rich foods can benefit from supplements.

When Should Kids Take Dietary Supplements?

Kids should take dietary supplements in consultation with their pediatrician. The pediatrician will conduct a physical examination or check blood tests for nutrient deficiencies before recommending dietary supplements.

It is essential to follow the recommended dosage for the supplement as overdose can lead to adverse health effects. Additionally, supplements should not be taken with medications unless approved by the pediatrician.

The Bottom Line

Providing children with a healthy diet and lifestyle remains the primary way of promoting their growth and development. Still, sometimes dietary supplements are required to fill any nutritional gaps and ensure optimal growth and development.

It is essential to consult a pediatrician before giving dietary supplements to children and following their recommended dosage for maximum benefits.