The More You Know

Should Your Preschooler Take Vitamins? If So, Which Ones are Best?

Words by Sarah Thompson

The best way to ensure that your child gets the vitamins and minerals they need is by offering a well-balanced diet of vegetables, fruit, grains and lean proteins. But some factors—picky eating, food allergies, dietary restrictions and even climate—can impact their vitamin and mineral intake.

The big question is: Should your child take vitamins to get the nutrition they might be lacking?

Multivitamins for kids can round out your child’s nutrition, but with so many types on the market, it can be hard to decide which vitamin supplement is the best for your child. Here are ways to determine if your child needs multivitamins, as well as tips for finding the best multivitamins for your child.

In general, vitamin and mineral supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so make sure to read the labels and do your research. Vitamins should be listed as a “complete” supplement, meaning they contain diverse vitamins and minerals that are important for growing bodies.

Liquid vitamins are a usual first choice for small children since this form of supplement is easier to administer.

Chewable vitamins are kid-friendly and easier to swallow. You should also consider a food-based vitamin, which is derived from real food and could be better absorbed by the body than a synthetic vitamin.

Kids who live in a seasonal climate typically don’t get enough sun exposure during the winter, which makes a vitamin D supplement important.

Surprisingly, pediatricians confirm that children don’t need additional vitamins for immune support. Instead, they should focus on eating food rich in vitamins and minerals that support a healthy immune system, such as vitamins

D and E, calcium and zinc. Try serving your kid these foods to boost their immune system.

Immune Boosting Foods + Supplements

-Vitamin D: Salmon, cod, eggs, milk

-Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, leafy greens like spinach, chard and broccoli

-Calcium: Yogurt, milk, tofu, dark leafy greens

-Zinc: Red meat, poultry, brown rice, beans