By giving our children the vitamins they need every day, we can have peace of mind knowing that they’re protected.
We all know how important vitamins are but there’s no harm in a little reminder every so often. Vitamins are extremely important for children’s health. They provide our little ones’ bodies with the necessary ingredients to function, grow, develop and defend themselves. Your child needs a range of vitamins to contribute to the health of different parts of their body, organ function and immunity. Vitamins will help your little one’s body to be resilient and strong, fighting off illnesses from harmful bacteria and viruses. Young children, in particular, are exposed to so many different things that it’s crucial to ensure that they’re receiving all of the necessary vitamins.
Is supplementation okay?
The best way to make sure that your child is receiving these vitamins is through nutrition. A balanced diet of healthy foods will give them all the vitamins and nutrients that they need. Some children are picky eaters and may refuse some of the foods that contain these healthy vitamins. In these cases, supplementation is an option that will get your child the range of vitamins without the daily argument over uneaten vegetables. In the meantime however, it’s worth persevering and showing them the value of eating healthy food so that they can transition off supplements and get their vitamins from natural sources. With that being said, supplements are a pain-free way to give your child the recommended amount of vitamins instead of worrying if they’re getting enough from their food.
What vitamins are essential
A regular intake of vitamins A, C and D, along with omega-3 and zinc will boost your child’s immunity and contribute to their overall health. Let’s take a look at what each of them do.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is great for your child in three main ways. It boosts their immune system, it aids their skin health and it’s good for their eyesight. Particularly with the amount of screentime most children get, it’s more important than ever to take care of their eyes. There are plenty of food sources for Vitamin A including fish, eggs, dairy, carrots and leafy green vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for your little one’s growth. It will make sure that their muscles, bones and teeth are in good shape. Enough Vitamin D will go a long way to keeping your child in their best health. Thankfully, your child can get lots of it from the sun, but during times when they have to stay indoors there are a few foods that contain Vitamin D. Oily fish, red meat, eggs and fortified cereals are the main sources. Many people all over the world are not getting enough Vitamin D each day so be sure to supplement your child if required.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C really is a super-vitamin! It can help your child in so many different ways, including their immunity, bone health, skin health and nervous system. It enables them to fight off bugs, develop strong teeth and bones, heal wounds faster and absorb iron to boost their overall health. Vitamin C isn’t created or stored in the body and so we must be sure that our children intake it daily through their diet. Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are the best natural sources of this wonderful vitamin, such as citrus fruits, peppers, tomatoes and cruciferous vegetables.
Omega-3
Not only does omega-3 help your child’s immune system and growth, it can also improve brain health, and stave off anxiety and depression. It will also contribute to their ability to both learn and sleep. Omega-3 also nourishes your child’s hair, encouraging it to grow and shine. Omega-3s are most easily found in oily fish, such as mackerel or sardines, nuts, seeds and avocados.
Zinc
Getting enough zinc is very important for your little one’s immunity. It works best when they’re also receiving enough Vitamin C and can ensure that your child grows in a healthy way, warding off harmful bugs and viruses. Fortified cereals, along with meat, fish and milk are the main food sources to include for zinc.
Whether it’s solely from food or aided with supplementation, it’s very important to make sure that you’re giving your child the vitamins that they need. Multivitamins are available, making the supplementation process more straightforward. Food is our natural source of vitamins and, as such, is preferable but don’t hesitate to rely on supplements, at least initially. They can take the stress out of it all. They come in stated amounts and the package will tell you the recommended dose. If you have any further questions about how much of each vitamin your little one needs or concerns about vitamin deficiency, consult with their doctor.
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