The Ultimate Guide to the Best Vitamins for Kids
When it comes to vitamins for kids, it’s crucial to ensure you get the facts and understand your options. After all, every parent only wants what’s best for their kid’s health, growth and development.
So keep reading to get the most out of the ultimate guide to the best vitamins for kids.
Take care not only about the internal condition and health of the child, but also about their external safety. Always know where there are, connect quickly even in silent mode, and listen to what’s going on around them with the Findmykids app.
Contents:
- How to Choose Vitamins for Kids?
- The Best Vitamins for Kids
- Vitamins for Toddlers
- Best Multivitamin for Kids
- Kids Multivitamin with Iron
- Liquid Vitamins for Kids
- Chewable Vitamins for Kids
- Children’s Vitamin D
- Children’s Vitamin C
- Gummy Vitamins for Kids
- Best Vitamins for Kids Immune System
- Focus Vitamins for Kids
- Organic Vitamins for Kids
- Vitamins for Kids with ADHD
- Growth Vitamins for Kids
- FAQ
How to Choose Vitamins for Kids?
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Choosing vitamins for kids can seem overwhelming. With so many brands and products on the market, how do you know which ones will be effective?
It helps to understand why kids need vitamins, what to pay attention to, in what situations vitamins can cause harm, and the age at which children should take vitamins.
And don’t forget! It’s important to talk to your pediatrician before giving children vitamins. A pediatrician can help choose the right supplements for babies, toddlers, and teens.
Why Do Kids Need Vitamins?
Vitamins are crucial to the human body’s health, growth, and development. For example, without vitamins, children can develop rickets, scurvy, and various other medical issues.
For more information on why kids need vitamins, watch this video on how vitamins work and why they’re so important.
Here’s the thing. Not all kids need to take multivitamins. Most pediatricians will tell you that your child will consume what they need without adding supplements to their diet.
In some situations, though, like when a teenager is a picky eater or a toddler isn’t able to properly absorb nutrients, vitamins provide an effective, natural boost to the system.
When in doubt, always turn to a pediatrician for guidance. They help you better understand if vitamins benefit your child’s growth and development.
What to Pay Attention To?
When it comes to choosing the best vitamins for kids, it’s essential to verify that the brand has been tested by third-party organizations like:
- ConsumerLab.com;
- Informed Choice;
- NSF International.
These organizations test and publish results on nutrition, health, and wellness products.
In other words, they test kids’ vitamins to ensure they don’t contain megadoses or other harmful ingredients.
Can Vitamins Cause Harm?
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The vitamins given to kids mustn’t exceed their daily nutrient amounts. It’s also essential to make sure kids don’t overeat their supplements.
Here are two examples of how vitamins cause harm:
- Due to their similarity to candy, taking the correct number of gummy vitamins poses a challenge for some kids.
- Kids that megadose or exceed their daily nutrient amount can end up with toxic levels of vitamins. This is especially true for vitamins D, A, E, and K:
- too much vitamin A causes confusion, liver damage, and hair and bone loss;
- high doses of vitamin D elevates blood levels and creates gastrointestinal problems;
- too much vitamin E causes bleeding in the brain;
- lots of vitamin K causes blood clots.
To avoid serious harm caused by overeating vitamins, talk to your teens about the correct intake amount. For toddlers, it’s best to keep their supplements out of reach.
Should your child ingest too many vitamins or supplements, immediately contact emergency services.
At What Age Should Children Take Vitamins?
According to WebMD, It’s best to try and introduce your child to a variety of healthy foods first before offering them an alternative.
So try and wait until your child is at least 4 years old before giving them vitamins or supplements.
The rule changes, however, if your pediatrician prescribes or suggests vitamins for your child for other reasons.
The Best Vitamins for Kids
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Searching for the right kind of vitamins to buy for kids can feel overwhelming.
You want to ensure they’ve been approved for purity and potency by a third party. You also want to know that the vitamins contain the proper nutrients to support your child’s needs.
But what about the best vitamins for toddlers? Which vitamins are organic or help with growth, focus, ADHD, hyperactivity, and other types of attention deficit disorders?
The following list offers the answers to all these questions and more.
Vitamins for Toddlers
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The age range for toddlers is typically between the ages of 1 and 3. However, some define the age range from 1 to 4.
In general, the best age to start kids on vitamins is 4. Yet, it is possible to give toddlers vitamins if they need proper nutrients. This all depends on your child’s current diet and how well they absorb nutrients.
If you’re searching for a good option, look no further. Here’s the best vitamin for toddlers.
OLLY Kids Multi + Probiotic
This is a multivitamin option for toddlers as young as two! These vitamins are third-party tested by NSF International.
Purchase this vitamin for toddlers on Olly’s website, Amazon or Walmart.
Age: 2+
Cost: USD $13.99 — $35.97
Pros: This multivitamin for kids includes vitamins A, C, D, E, B, and zinc. A bonus is that it also contains probiotics, which help good gut bacteria stay balanced and healthy.
Cons: The recommended age for this vitamin is 2+, so the dosage can vary. Read the label carefully to make sure your child receives the correct, age-based dosage.
This multivitamin also comes in gummy form. So take care to keep the multivitamins out of your toddler’s reach to avoid overeating.
Best Multivitamin for Kids
What about kids aged 4 and up? What’s the best overall multivitamin?
Check out SmartyPants Kids Daily Multivitamin.
Best Choice: SmartyPants Kids Daily Multivitamin
This kid’s vitamin is good for children with allergies. It includes 15 essential nutrients and no added preservatives or ingredients. They’re also third-party tested and approved.
Buy SmartyPants Kids Daily Multivitamin at Amazon or Target.
Age: 4+
Cost: USD $14.99
Pros: SmartyPants gummies contain vitamin B12, D3, omega-3 EPA and DHA, vitamin E, and iodine. These essential nutrients help promote bone, immune system, brain, heart, thyroid, and antioxidant health.
Cons: Each serving of gummies includes 5 grams of added sugar. So watch out for your child’s diet! This vitamin could contribute to consuming more than the daily recommended amount of sugar.
Kids Multivitamin with Iron
Iron is an essential part of every diet. However, iron deficiencies lead to health problems like anemia.
To help kids with tested iron deficiencies, give them a multivitamin with iron.
Best Choice: Renzo’s Picky Eater Multi with Iron
Third-party tested, this vitamin contains 18 essential nutrients, including iron, and is well suited to children who prefer a meat-free diet.
Keep in mind that taking too much iron is dangerous. Test your child for an iron deficiency before giving them any vitamin or supplement.
Purchase this multivitamin with iron directly from Renzo’s website or on Amazon.
Age: 4+
Cost: USD $22 – 26
Pros: Includes iron so that kids get the right daily intake. It works best for picky eaters, vegans and vegetarians.
Cons: These vitamins are more expensive compared to other multivitamins. They also include sugar alcohols, xylitol, and mannitol. These ingredients can cause an upset stomach if taken in large quantities.
Liquid Vitamins for Kids
Gummy and chewable tablets might not work for every child. So here’s a top pick for a good liquid vitamin.
Best Choice: ChildLife Essentials Children’s Multivitamin & Mineral
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Developed by pediatricians, this liquid multivitamin aims to provide all the essential vitamins and minerals a child doesn’t get from their diet.
This product hasn’t been evaluated yet by the Food & Drug Administration. However, it is certified NSF Gluten-Free. It is also non-GMO certified and allergen-free.
Grab these liquid multivitamins for kids on Amazon or from iHerb.
Age: 6 months to 4+
Cost: USD $19.89
Pros: Children as young as 6 months can take this multivitamin. In addition to primary minerals, it contains 13 essential vitamins.
Cons: This product needs to be kept refrigerated. Make sure the bottle is out of reach of small children. It also doesn’t contain iron.
Chewable Vitamins for Kids
Some kids prefer chewable vitamins. The good news is you can find good options with natural flavors. Here’s one of the healthiest options you can buy.
Best Choice: Children’s Immunity Chewable with All-Natural Colors, Flavors, and Sweeteners
Credit: raisethemwell.com
All ingredients used in this chewable kid’s vitamin help to boost the immune system and fight against illness.
To give this vitamin its great taste, monk sugar is added. It has no added sugar or calories.
Purchase this immunity chewable multivitamin from RaiseThemWell.
Age: 4+
Cost: USD $32.99
Pros: This brand is an excellent option if you’re also looking for a vitamin C multivitamin for your kids. It’s also third-party tested at an external site and by the manufacturing facility.
Cons: Some ingredients contain more than the FDA’s recommended Daily Value. According to RaiseThemWell, this helps kids grow and recover from illness. Make sure to check with your pediatrician before giving vitamins to your children.
Children’s Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for the healthy growth and development of children’s bones and teeth. Without vitamin D, children can develop delayed motor skills, aches and pains, fractures, and muscle weakness.
That’s why it’s critical to ensure your child gets enough vitamin D—especially from a young age.
Here’s the best vitamin for children who need a little vitamin D boost.
Best Choice: Nordic Naturals Baby’s Vitamin D3
Breast milk generally doesn’t offer enough vitamin D for the average baby. When needed, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving your baby a supplement with vitamin D.
This is a standard recommendation for breastfeeding or partially breastfed babies. Talk to your healthcare provider about your baby’s needs when in doubt.
Buy this vitamin D children’s vitamin at Nordic Naturals.
Age: 0—12 months
Cost: USD $15.95
Pros: This vitamin contains 2 ingredients and is very affordable. It’s also third-party tested, GMO, and filler free.
Cons: Reviews indicate the dropper is tricky to use, and it’s difficult to see how much of the product is left in the bottle.
Children’s Vitamin C
One of the best vitamins that help boost a child’s immune system is vitamin C. Here’s one of the best children’s vitamin C on the market.
Best Choice: Llama Naturals Elderberry Immunity Whole Fruit Gummies
This vitamin comes with a ‘love it, or get your money back’ guarantee (when purchased from Llama Naturals).
You can find these vitamin C packed vitamins on Llama Naturals.
Age: 2—4 (and older)
Cost: USD $20.66
Pros: The vitamin C in this gummy vitamin is organic and made from Acerola Cherries.
Cons: If your child is on other medications, consult a pediatrician before giving them this vitamin. It contains elderberries, which can cause side effects.
Gummy Vitamins for Kids
Regarding gummy vitamins, be careful of the amount and type of sugar-based ingredients. If not careful, gummies can cause tooth decay and add calories to your kid’s diet.
So here’s your best option for gummy vitamins for kids.
Best Choice: Ritual Essentials for Kids (4+)
This sugar-free, gummy vitamin for kids is especially good for picky eaters. It comes in a citrus berry flavor that’s a known crowd pleaser.
Head to Ritual to purchase this vitamin for your kids.
Age: 4—12 years
Cost: USD $30
Pros: Made with 12 essential ingredients, you can trace where each comes from using a ‘visible supply chain.’ Includes a good boost of fiber and 50 mg of omega-DHA per serving.
Cons: This vitamin is only suitable for kids 4+.
Best Vitamins for Kids Immune System
Arguably, some of the best vitamins for kids help boost the immune system to prevent and better equip the body to fight off colds.
Here are the best vitamins for kids immune system.
Best Choice: Olly Kids Immunity Gummy Vitamin & Supplement
This gummy vitamin is backed by science, vitamin C, and zinc to help keep kids immune systems in fighting shape.
Pick up this immune-boosting supplement and vitamin at Walmart, Olly, or Amazon.
Age: 2 and older
Cost: USD $13.99
Pros: It contains zinc and vitamin C (Acerola Cherries). It’s also NSF certified and a very affordable option.
Cons: These multivitamins for kids aren’t organic and include added sugar.
Focus Vitamins for Kids
Certain vitamins help kids focus. These vitamins contain supplements that promote brain health and cognitive development.
Best Choice: RaiseThemWell Children’s Chewable Multivitamin
This kid’s chewable multivitamin contains L5 Methylfolate, a vitamin that promotes a healthy nervous system and brain function. It also includes double the amount of folate, another vitamin that helps children focus and stay calm.
Age: 4+
Cost: USD $22
Pros: These vitamins are gluten-free, vegetarian, and don’t contain egg, wheat, dairy, nuts, processed sugar, or yeast.
Cons: Despite the great taste, some kids might not like that this multivitamin is chewable.
Organic Vitamins for Kids
Organic vitamins contain only the good stuff! This means you won’t find any processed or chemical ingredients inside an organically certified kids’ vitamin.
Best Choice: Garden of Life mykind Organic Kids Gummy Vitamin
These organic, kid gummy vitamins contain 9 whole fruits in one bottle. You won’t find processed sugars in these vitamins, and kids can choose from two delicious flavors.
Go organic and buy these vitamins on Amazon or Garden of Life.
Age: 4 and older
Cost: $24—$29
Pros: These vitamins are certified organic and non-GMO. They don’t contain artificial colors or flavors or synthetic ingredients. Plus, it’s nut-free!
Cons: Organic gummy vitamins are pricier thanks to their quality ingredients.
Vitamins for Kids with ADHD
The effectiveness of supplements and vitamins for kids with ADHD is widely debated. There have, however, been many studies done on this very subject.
The good news is that some vitamins like Omega-3 help to support the work of ADHD medications.
Best Choice: Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA
This supplement offers a combination of Omega-3s, including EPA and DHA. It is produced in triglyceride form so that it is easily absorbed once consumed.
Buy Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA on their website or on Amazon.
Age: Best for 1—12 year olds
Cost: USD $16—$24
Pros: It is Friend of the Sea (FOS) certified, meaning the fish is sustainably sourced. This supplement also provides a Certificate of Analysis for every batch.
Cons: Mixing vitamins and supplements with ADHD medications is a tricky balance. Discuss any supplement you give your child with a healthcare provider.
Growth Vitamins for Kids
Some children have difficulty with weight gain, which helps them grow. This happens for many reasons, including a picky or restrictive diet, allergies, and more.
When it comes to your kids’ growth and development, vitamins—especially multivitamins—can help to fill the gaps.
Best Choice: Zarbee’s Naturals Complete Toddler Multivitamin
It’s a good idea to start your young kids off with a multivitamin that includes beneficial growth vitamins. This multivitamin is made with 12 vitamins and minerals that help your toddler’s healthy development. Vitamins include A, B6, B12, C, D3, E, folic acid, and total B-complex.
Buy Zarbee’s Naturals Complete Toddler Multivitamin on Amazon and Walmart.
Age: 2—4
Cost: USD $15.29—$23.65
Pros: Vitamins like calcium and vitamin D help kids develop strong bones. It’s also sweetened with honey instead of other sugars.
Cons: This multivitamin doesn’t contain iron. Due to their fruit flavor, remember to store this product away from curious toddlers.
FAQ
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Do you still have concerns about the best vitamins for kids? Here are some answers to your most pressing questions.
What Vitamins Should I Give My Kids Daily?
Most kids get the vitamins they need from the food they eat. However, if you have a picky eater, vegan, or a child who cannot absorb the nutrients they need, a daily vitamin might help.
So when it comes to the vitamins you give your kids daily, consider the following:
- Safety and Quality: does the included daily vitamin and minerals meet industry standards?
- Dosage: is the vitamin formulated for the age of your child?
- Testing: is the vitamin tested by a third party?
- Respected Brand: is the company well known for producing good vitamin products?
- Ingredients: do the vitamins include organic ingredients, free from preservatives, dyes, artificial flavors, or fillers?
If your concern is general, a daily multivitamin should do the trick. However, if your concerns are more specific, like an iron or vitamin D deficiency, choose a daily vitamin or supplement that contains those ingredients.
In some cases, your child might prefer a certain texture. For example, kids vitamins come in gummy, chewable, dissolvable, and liquid forms. Finding the vitamin, your child likes best is often trial and error.
Ultimately, giving your child a daily vitamin is something you should discuss with your pediatrician. This will prevent your child from ingesting more than the recommended daily intake of essential nutrients.
What are the Best Vitamins for Children’s Immune System?
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The best vitamins for a child’s immune system include ones that have ingredients like:
- Potassium;
- Folate;
- Magnesium;
- Zinc;
- Vitamins A, B2, B6, C, E, and K.
Vitamin C, in particular, is especially good at boosting children’s immune systems. It’s a powerful antioxidant essential to strengthening a child’s immunity and overall health.
Should Children Take a Daily Vitamin?
The answer to this question depends on your child’s health, growth, and development.
It’s also critical to consider the age of your child. It’s often not necessary for children under 4 to take a daily vitamin unless indicated by a pediatrician.
When Should Kids Begin Taking Vitamins?
Here’s the general answer: kids should begin taking vitamins at the age of 4.
However, a vitamin’s effectiveness depends on whether your child needs to supplement their diet. It also depends on how well your child absorbs different nutrients.
Which is the Best Vitamin Choice for Kids?
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Parents. If you feel your child isn’t getting the proper daily intake of essential vitamins, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to find out more.
That being said, multivitamins for kids help to fill in the gaps when diet and other factors just don’t do the trick.
Knowing your child’s needs is especially important in choosing the best vitamins for kids.
The right intake of vitamins is crucial in children’s healthy growth and development. So ensuring they get the correct daily dosages– the right balance– is the ultimate goal.
Get involved! Like what you’ve read? Consider sharing this ultimate guide to the best vitamins for kids, or sound off in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
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