Proper vitamin supplementation for children

Vitamins are organic compounds that human and animal cells cannot synthesize on their own (except for vitamin D). Vitamin deficiencies can lead to specific diseases.

How many types of vitamins are there?

Based on their solubility in water or oil, vitamins are classified into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, K, etc.) and water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B8, B9, B12 and vitamin C).

Vitamin requirements vary greatly depending on gender and stage of development. Therefore, choosing the right vitamin supplement is not simple. Vitamin deficiencies can be caused by many factors and can involve deficiencies in multiple vitamins simultaneously. Consequently, treatment requires identifying the underlying cause and combining various vitamins.

Vitamin supplements for children should be given strictly according to the doctor's instructions and prescriptions.

Since the body cannot synthesize vitamins on its own (except for proper sun exposure which converts pre-vitamin D into vitamin D), we must eat a balanced and nutritious diet to ensure we get enough vitamins daily.

Which children need vitamin supplements?

If children receive a balanced and nutritious diet every day, there's no need to worry about vitamin deficiencies. In particular, increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits is recommended as these are the best natural sources of vitamins. Children who are malnourished or have stunted growth should definitely receive vitamin supplements; similarly, children recovering from illness (infections, coughs, asthma, diarrhea, etc.) will also benefit from vitamin supplementation.

So, should normal children take vitamin supplements? Theoretically, if a child has a balanced, reasonable, and adequate diet and is in normal condition (i.e., shows no signs of malnutrition), then vitamin supplements are not necessary. However, if there is suspicion that the diet is not providing enough, even healthy children should take vitamin supplements.

Because the vitamins naturally present in food will be lost or severely reduced in a complete meal if the food quality is not guaranteed (wilted vegetables, fruits that are no longer fresh lose a lot of vitamin C), or if the food is not properly preserved or processed (the whiter the rice, the less vitamin B1 it contains; overcooked food will lose all vitamin C...).

Therefore, doctors often recommend vitamin supplements for seemingly healthy children. For obese children, doctors usually advise a low-fat diet and the necessary vitamin supplementation, because a low-fat diet doesn't allow for sufficient absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K.

It's important to note that vitamin supplements are not a substitute for food; a balanced diet with all food groups is still necessary. Among vitamins, vitamins A and D should not be taken in excess or in excessive doses, as they accumulate in the body and can cause toxicity. If taking a multivitamin (one tablet per day), it should not contain more than 5,000 international units (IU) of vitamin A and no more than 400 IU of vitamin D.

If using an oral solution, use the exact number of drops or volume (in ml) as directed on the medication's instructions. Liquid forms like oral solutions are recommended for children as they are easier to swallow and absorb. Avoid high doses of vitamin C (more than 1g/day) as prolonged use can cause diarrhea, gastrointestinal ulcers, and kidney stones.

According to Pharmacist Hoang Thu Thuy - Health & Life - NT