A children's vitamin is a dietary supplement specially intended for children under 12 years of age that provides one or more necessary vitamins, minerals or other nutrients. A healthy diet based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, etc. should provide adequate amounts of nutrients for most children. However, many factors can affect proper nutrition, such as strict vegetarianism, the use of certain medications, and some illnesses. It has also become increasingly difficult to obtain proper nutrition while living a modern lifestyle. With such health hazards as stress, pollution, and poor or erratic diet, children today are often deficient in many key vitamins and nutrients. Children's vitamins, while not a complete solution, may help fight deficiencies and help improve health for children with inadequate nutrition. Consult your child’s pediatrician about supplementing with a multivitamin.
Read labels thoroughly; dietary supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that foods and pharmaceuticals are, and quality may vary by manufacturer. It is important to consult your child’s pediatrician before supplementing with any children's vitamin.
Multivitamin supplements are not intended to be a total replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle. Foods contain many vital chemicals and nutrients that cannot be obtained through a supplement. Consult a nutritionist or health care provider for dietary guidelines.