Choosing the Best Daily Vitamins for Your Kids

Children’s vitamin and mineral needs are based on many factors, such as your child’s age, gender and activity levels.³ While children who eat a well-balanced diet don’t typically need supplemental vitamins or minerals, others may be at risk for deficiencies and may need to take a daily vitamin.⁴

Children who are vegan or vegetarian may need to take dietary supplements in order to get the recommended amount of vitamin B₁₂.⁴ Children with chronic medical conditions may need additional vitamins and minerals because they may be at risk for nutritional deficiencies.⁴ Additionally, certain medications may interfere with a child’s diet and may cause them to need a daily vitamin.⁴

With so many factors at play, understanding the nuances of recommended vitamin intakes for kids can play a big role in helping you choose the best daily vitamins.

Some Essential Vitamins for Kids: A Closer Look

Vitamin B₆

Vitamin B₆ is responsible for supporting metabolism, immune function and brain development in children during infancy.⁵ A vitamin B₆ deficiency can lead to symptoms such as anemia, rashes that itch, cracks in the corners of the mouth, scaly lips and a swollen tongue.⁵

Biotin

Biotin supports enzymes in the body that are involved in breaking down fat, carbohydrates and other substances.⁶ The signs of a biotin deficiency are thinning hair and face rashes.⁶

Vitamin B₁₂

Vitamin B₁₂ is needed to create red blood cells and DNA.² It’s also crucial in the function and development of brain and nerve cells.² A B₁₂ deficiency can result in neurological damage.² This vitamin is naturally present only in animal products like meat, poultry, fish and milk.³ Because it is not present in plant products, it’s important for children who eat a vegetarian or vegan diet to supplement appropriately.²

Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays many important roles during a child’s growth and development. It’s an effective antioxidant, important for immune health and enhances the absorption of iron.² Iron deficiency is one of the most common childhood nutrient deficiencies; proper vitamin C intake can help combat this.²

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining the metabolism of calcium, which is a crucial component for bone health.² Infants and children who do not get enough of this vitamin in their diets may be affected by a condition called rickets, where rapidly growing bones don’t have enough mineralization to support the weight of the child and become bowed.² While sunlight can contain vitamin D, and many foods are fortified with the vitamin, it’s still important to ensure that children are getting enough in their diets.²

Manganese

This mineral helps the body produce energy and helps protect cells against damage.⁷ Manganese also supports the immune system, bone strength and blood clotting.⁷ A manganese deficiency in children can cause poor growth and weak bones.⁷

Zinc

This mineral is necessary for growth and development, neurological function, reproduction and the immune system.² Children who do not get enough zinc in their diets may have delayed physical growth and an impaired immune system.² In fact, a zinc deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to a number of infectious agents.²

Types of Vitamins for Kids

Vitamins for kids come in a variety of formats, colors and flavors. Gummy vitamins and chewable vitamins for kids in particular are rising in popularity. But if your child is picky, how can you ensure that a multivitamin will appeal to them?

Parents should look for tasty flavors and avoid the large traditional pills and capsules. Make sure your child understands that these are vitamins, not candy, and ensure that they are kept in child-proof containers.⁴ Dietary supplements should only be given under adult supervision. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about supplements before giving them to your child.⁴

If your pediatrician recommends it, look to Kidz Fun-tastic Fruit Immune+ Immune Support* gummies, a dietary supplement from Emergen-C. They’re packed with vitamin C, B₁₂, and D to help fill nutritional gaps and help support your little one’s immune system.* For another dietary supplement option, look to Emergen-C Kids Fruit Punch, which is formulated especially for kids.*

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.