Every parent wants the best for their child, particularly when it comes to their health. It’s understandable to ask if multivitamins are the solution to give their little bodies a boost and prevent every sniffle and cough. But is it so much of a super shield, or are we just wasting money that we don’t have to? Let’s see what the experts have to say about multivitamins for kids.
Do multivitamins ward off disease in children?
Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, explains, “A lot of parents wonder about this question, and for their healthy children, the answer is usually ‘no.’ If your child is thriving and consuming lots of various good foods, they are likely getting all the nutrients they require from their meals. The end line is – multivitamins may bridge short-term nutritional deficiencies; however, they are not a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet.”
Moreover, recent studies have shown that multivitamins are of no use until a person (or a child) is deficient in that nutrient. Dr Shalin Nagori, a Consultant Pathologist and Industrial Physician, says, “Consuming multivitamins without the need for it can increase the risk of nutrient imbalance in your body. Certain nutrients react with each other and may interfere with the absorption of the other nutrients.” It is always advised to take multivitamins only if you have any deficiency, after consulting with your doctor.
There are some situations in which a doctor may recommend a multivitamin, though. This may be for a child who is extremely picky about what they eat, has some ongoing medical issues, is not growing well, has strict diets (such as vegan), or eats a lot of processed or fast foods. Aayushi Agarwal, Certified Dietician & Diabetes Educator, suggests, “Routine multivitamins are not a magic shield to prevent diseases. Whether your child needs supplements depends on factors like deficiency in their body, their age, weight, food consumption, etc.”
How to make informed decisions that fuel their immunity?
Dr Dave mentions, “The best way to improve your child’s immunity and ensure that they obtain all the right nutrients is through consuming a well-balanced and varied diet. This ‘food-first’ strategy involves prioritising whole, fresh foods before contemplating additional pills or fluids.” Here’s what you can do:
Rainbow fruits and vegetables are packed with goodness that helps protect cells. Imagine berries, spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes. The more hues on their plate, the healthier!
Good proteins: Chicken, fish, beans, and lentils provide the body with what it requires to create tough immune cells.
Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, whole wheat, and millets provide energy and valuable nutrients.
Healthy fats: In foods such as avocados and olive oil, these play a key role in overall health.
Probiotics: These are good bacteria that are in yoghurt and other fermented foods. They keep your child’s tummy happy, and a healthy tummy is a big part of a healthy immune system. Outside of food, simple everyday habits are amazingly potent for immunity:
Enough sleep: Ensure your child has the appropriate amount of sleep for their age.
Moving their body: Physical activity allows immune cells to travel more efficiently.
Good handwashing: Basic measures such as frequent washing of hands are incredibly potent at preventing illness.
Limit junk food: Junk foods are a major culprit in growing kids. Although they crave it due to hormonal disturbances in their bodies, psychological stress and lack of sleep during this time, these food items affect their bodies in the long run. Limiting junk food can have a positive impact on their body and mind.
So, do immunity vitamins work? In most well kids, no, as many parents wish. Your child’s healthy immune system is based on good food, good habits, and lots of rest. Supplements may assist if there is a special need, but they are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. If you’re concerned about your child’s diet or how frequently they become ill, always consult your doctor. They can provide the best guidance specifically for your child.
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