Parenthood is a tricky business, attempting to navigate through everything from breastfeeding to toilet training, not to mention actually giving birth.
However, we wouldn't change it for the world!
On that long list of things we need to figure out is choosing vitamins for our children. It can be quite daunting - especially as you only want to give your children the best.
There are so many choices and so much information without adding in the complication of deciphering multivitamins for kids.
We've got your back, mums. Here are a few things to check when choosing a children’s multivitamin:
Why does my child need vitamins?
As much as you don't want to admit it to yourself, your little ones are growing and developing at a super fast rate, meaning that they require more nutrition for their weight than us adults do. Nutrients such as omega 3 DHA fats are required to support brain and visual development, and also contributes to normal visual development of little ones up to 12 months.
Kids are also exposed to a lot of bacteria at playgroups and schools, as a result of the number of pals they come into contact with. The fact that they love running around in the dirt doesn't help, we might add.
Their little immune systems are not fully matured and often need extra support, as they are more susceptible to germs and sickness. You know what's brilliant for boosting their immunity? Vitamin C (you can't beat it!)
Vitamin A is needed to protect the skin, while vitamin D is needed for the normal growth of bones, as well as the immune system. Vitamin E is also a good nutrient to add as it helps to protect against oxidative stress in the body.
Nutrients are super important for child's health, and for the most part, diet should suffice, but the reality is that it is not really enough, so you may want to consider a multivitamin.
Baby multi-vitamins
If you are feeding your baby with formula, the necessary vitamins will have been added. If your bub is breastfed, there are vitamins from the mother’s diet passing through. However, this is usually just the minimum amount to keep them well.
Children who have special requirements may need even more support. When the weaning process begins, your child's consumption of milk decreases (naturally), and then a multivitamin is recommended. Babies may become fussy and not eat as wide a variety of foods that we would like.
Toddler multivitamins
Toddlers tend to be particularly fussy when it comes to food, making it challenging to introduce all of the green vegetables and other goodies that are needed for good health. Although children’s diets should be carefully planned and balanced (easier said than done), topping up with a children’s multivitamin can help them to meet their requirements and keep that pep in their step.
Children’s multi-vitamins
A person's diet should contain five portions of vegetables and fruit per day, and this is especially important for kiddos. Little ones should also be eating fish twice a week in to get omega-3 fatty acids. Good eating habits start with weaning and will support your child’s health. Giving your little one a multi-vitamin each day is a good habit to get into and helps support healthy development.
Do you give your child a multivitamin? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
