- Vitamin D This vitamin plays a vital role in building strong bones and teeth, supporting cell growth, and enabling the absorption of calcium. It's also key for a healthy immune system, something highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to its importance, the UK government recommends all children from birth to age 5 take a vitamin D supplement providing 400 IU per day.
- Calcium
Calcium is fundamental for developing healthy bones, teeth, and normal muscle function in kids. Since 99% of the body's calcium resides in the bones, a steady dietary supply is crucial for building strong bones that will benefit them later in life. While dairy, leafy greens, beans, and some fruits/veggies provide calcium, many kids still don't meet their requirements, making a calcium supplement a helpful addition. - Vitamin C Most know vitamin C boosts the immune system, but it's also vital for collagen formation, affecting blood vessels, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums, and skin - all important for a child's growth. Humans can't produce our own vitamin C, so we must get it from foods like citrus fruits, peppers, broccoli and tomatoes. However, cooking can deplete vitamin C levels, so the UK advises all kids aged 6 months to 5 years take a daily vitamin C supplement.
- Omega-3s The omega-3 fatty acid DHA is essential for normal brain function, vision development in infants, and overall brain/eye development during the critical childhood years. As the body can't produce DHA itself, it must come from foods like salmon, tuna and other fatty fish - sources that most kids don't get enough of. An omega-3/DHA supplement can help fulfill this need for proper cognitive and visual development.
- Iron
This nutrient allows for healthy oxygen-carrying red blood cells, a strong immune system, and reduced fatigue. Crucially for kids, iron supports healthy brain development. While babies get enough iron initially, their iron needs increase after 6 months as they begin solid foods. Plant-based infants or those still breastfeeding may benefit from an iron supplement to prevent deficiency and support mental development. - Zinc Well-known for immunity benefits, zinc also plays roles in protein synthesis, cognitive function, and driving growth/development - making it especially vital for kids. While found in oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts and dairy, many kids may need a zinc boost from supplements to ensure they get enough of this essential nutrient.
So in those critical years of growth, providing kids with proper nutrients like these "Big 6" can help set them up for a lifetime of good health!
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