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Parents and carers often wonder whether their young child needs a multivitamin to support healthy growth. While a balanced and varied diet typically provides all the essential nutrients a child needs, there are situations where a supplement may be recommended. Understanding when a multivitamin is necessary and what to consider when choosing one is key to supporting a child’s nutritional wellbeing.
When are multivitamins recommended for children?
The NHS advises that all children between the ages of six months and five years should be given supplements containing vitamins A, C and D daily, unless they are having more than 500ml of formula milk a day, which is already fortified. Children on restricted diets, with poor appetites, or certain health conditions may also benefit from additional supplementation.
Fussy eating habits are common in the early years, but even when children seem to eat very little, they are often getting what they need over the course of a week. Nonetheless, consistent gaps in nutrition, such as low intake of vitamin D, iron, or calcium, can lead to deficiencies, especially when fortified foods are not consumed as part of their diet. In these cases, a multivitamin designed for children can help to bridge the gap.
Caregivers considering supplements should speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new product. It is important to choose age-appropriate supplements and ensure they do not exceed 100% of the recommended daily intake of key vitamins and minerals.
Choosing the right supplement
Multivitamins for children come in various forms, from chewable tablets to gummies and liquids. The ideal choice depends on a child’s age, dietary needs, and preferences. Supplements that are tailored to children’s specific nutritional requirements are more likely to offer safe and effective support. Options such as the Kids All-in-1 chewables from https://www.vitortho.co.uk/supplements/categories/multivitamins/kids-all-in-1/ provide formulations suited to young children.
While multivitamins can be beneficial in some cases, they should never replace a healthy, varied diet. Kids multivitamins are most effective when used as part of a broader approach to balanced nutrition and active lifestyle habits. As always, moderation and medical guidance are essential.
