Vitamins and Kids

"Was that a grimace or a smile?" the worried parents muse after the first spoonful of mushy food goes into their infant's mouth. And as the "first feeding angst" sets in, the next thought comes: "I hope it stays down." So begins the long journey of worry about making sure we are adequately taking care of our children's nutritional needs.

Planning Ahead for Health

Our children now face many new and disturbing illnesses: immune weakness, hyperactivity, emotional disturbances, multiple allergies, and diabetes. But the health of a child really begins long before birth. Optimal nutrition in all phases of development, from conception onward, is necessary to maximize health and minimize the many immune system and neurological illnesses. Experts suggest that prenatal nutrition should begin a full six months before conception. In addition, conception can be made easier with specific vitamins, herbs, and toxin-fighting antioxidants such as bioflavonoids. Folic acid and vitamin B₁₂ also help assure the neurological health of the child-to-be by reducing spinal bifida risk and neural tube defects.

Pre- and Post-Natal Supplementation

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the mother needs enough nutrients for two. It is now known that pesticides and other environmental toxins may severely disrupt the fragile hormonal, neurological, and physical development of the child. Mothers can protect their offspring by eating wholesome and organic food more often and by taking a comprehensive pre- and postnatal supplement. The supplement should contain a full spectrum of minerals, vitamins, and other biological factors, including helpful herbs such as raspberry leaf. Divided dosages ensure proper nutrient levels are absorbed and reduce the chance of losing the supplement's nutrient value in the event of morning sickness.

By taking essential fatty acids (EFAs), a pregnant woman can promote her baby's mental development even before it's born. According to a Spring 2004 publication of Midwifery Today, "Pregnant women should consider the intake of omega-3 oils and evening primrose oil throughout pregnancy in order to possibly prevent preterm delivery, promote an easier birth, assist the baby's brain and eye health, and preprogram the baby's cell membranes for optimum lifelong wellness."

Australian researchers reported additional good news about EFAs: specifically the omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Their 2002 report in Journal of Family Health Care indicated that DHA taken by the mother during lactation improves the baby's cognitive and visual development. Infants receiving EFAs through breast milk exhibited higher IQs than children who received an EFA-deficient formula. Currently, the proposed adequate intake of DHA for pregnant and lactating woman is 300 milligrams per day.

Newborn Nutrition

For the fussy newborn, a liquid multivitamin can provide some nutritent insurance, especially one that includes both fat and water soluble nutrients for full benefit. But remember that not all multivitamins are made equally. A 2004 study found that children given a liquid supplement in the first six months of life had an increased risk of allergies and asthma. The authors pointed to the allergenic ingredients or diluting agents that many pediatric vitamin preparations contain. Be sure to look for an all-natural formula that does not use artificial flavours or colours.

Picking up the Slack with Supplements

Research shows that children with good nutritional habits experience improved growth, perform better mentally and physically, and have stronger immune systems. Because children often do not eat enough fruits and vegetables, which provide many of the vitamins and minerals needed for optimal growth and development, supplementation in these early years is critical. The Healthy Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supplies at-risk youth with nutritional supplements, carried out a survey which found that children taking supplements were more likely to show improvement in concentration, grades, energy, and self-esteem; and a reduction in irritability, depression, and anger. Moreover, a vitamin "safety net" takes the pressure off feeding issues with the preschooler who may have become a finicky eater. Look for complete multi-vitamin mineral formulas with active B-vitamins and easy to absorb chelated bisglycinate minerals.

Start supplementing today, and gain some peace of mind knowing our most precious resource - our childre - can be safeguarded from the health risks of modern life and reach their full potential.