• What are vitamins?

Vitamins is an organic substance, which is essential for metabolism and for the normal growth and development of a multicellular orgasm, and it is required in very small amount.

Most vitamins cannot be synthesized in the body and be supplied in the diet.

Supplementation is important for the treatment of certain health problems, and the kids most consume vitamins periodically but with differing schedule to avoid deficiency.

The range of yaya contains different amounts of all the vitamins and fulfils recommendations.

Vitamin C:

Required for the formation of connective tissues, intracellular material and plays a role in wound healing. Vitamin C maintains resistance for infection, improves immunity defenses against common infection such as cold, flu and cough and aids Iron Absorption.

Zinc:

Used for boosting the immune system treating the common cold and recurrent ear infections and preventing Respiratory infections.

 Zn aids the transportation of Vitamin A. and supports healthy gums and teeth.

• Do children today need vitamins to supplement their diets and why?

 Not necessarily, Ideally, kids should get their vitamins from a balanced, healthy diet that includes: milk and dairy products like cheese and yogurt ,Plenty of fresh fruits and leafy, green vegetables ,Protein like chicken, fish, and eggs, whole grains like oats and brown rice.

However pediatricians may recommend a daily multivitamin or mineral supplement for some kids who aren’t eating regular,well-balanced meals made from fresh, whole foods, or  picky eaters who simply aren’t eating enough  also Kids with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or chronic digestive problems ,in addition ,Kids eating a lot of fast foods, convenience foods, and processed foods and of course Kids on a vegetarian diet or other restricted diet.

Vitamins are essential organic substances for the metabolism and the normal growth and development of a multicellular organism.

Vitamins are required in small quantity especially for kids.

As a Pediatrician I may recommend a daily multivitamin or mineral supplement for:

• Kids who aren’t eating regularly, well-balanced meals made from fresh, whole foods.
• Finicky eaters who simply aren’t eating enough.
• Kids with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or digestive problems, especially if they’re taking medications.
• Particularly active kids who play physically demanding sports
• Kids eating a lot of fast foods, convenience foods, and processed foods
• Kids on a vegetarian diet (they may need an iron supplement), a dairy-free diet (they may need a calcium supplement), or other restricted diet
• Kids who drink a lot of carbonated sodas, which can leach vitamins and minerals from their bodies.

Top Vitamins and Minerals for Kids

• Vitamin A promotes normal growth and development; tissue and bone repair; and healthy skin, eyes, and immune responses. Good sources include milk, cheese, eggs, and yellow-to-orange vegetables like carrots, yams, and squash.
• Vitamin Bs. The family of B vitamins — B2, B3, B6, and B12 — aid metabolism, energy

production, and healthy circulatory and nervous systems. Good sources include meat, chicken, fish, nuts, eggs, milk, cheese, beans, and soybeans.

• Vitamin C promotes healthy muscles, connective tissue, and skin. Good sources include citrus fruit, strawberries, kiwi, tomatoes, and green vegetables like broccoli.
• Vitamin D promotes bone and tooth formation and helps the body absorb calcium. Good sources include milk and other dairy products, and fish oil. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight.
• Calcium helps build strong bones as a child grows. Good sources include milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu, and calcium-fortified orange juice.
• Omega 3: helps in Brain Development. It has a benefit on: Improving visual/cognitive acuity enhances treatment of ADHD, Alzheimer & Depression diseases and Ensure adequate Omega 3 (DHA) storage in adults too.

Large doses of vitamins — aren’t a good idea for children. The fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) can be toxic if kids overdose on excessive amounts.

FAQ Answered by:

Dr.Mahmoud Elsaye Attia Shamseldeen ,professor &head and consultant ,pediatrics department ,GMC (GULF MEDICAL COLLEGE ) AJMAN