Did you know that about 25 percent of toddlers and preschoolers don’t eat a single serving of fruit on a given day, and 30 percent don’t eat a single serving of vegetables? Not one bite! Not only that, according to the Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study, french fries are the most popular “vegetable.”
With our fast-paced, fast-food culture, it’s not uncommon for families to miss mealtimes or to throw together something to eat that’s nutritionally sub-par. But missing key nutrients on a regular basis can be detrimental to anyone’s health, especially to a child’s quickly developing body. Even if you think you’re eating healthy, specific diets, lifestyles, and conditions might lead to nutritional deficits you might not even be aware of.
Should your toddler take a multi-vitamin? While the American Academy of Pediatrics hasn’t made it a recommendation for all children, it’s clear many toddlers could benefit from one. Deciding if your child should is a conversation to have with your doctor, but here are five reasons your toddler might need to:
1. Your toddler is a very picky eater. Finicky eating is very normal during this phase of development, but it’s also very concerning for nutrition-minded parents. When all your child will eat is “white food” and anything green is quickly and loudly refused, your child’s missing the full spectrum of nutrients that come from “eating a rainbow.”
2. Your toddler has dietary restrictions. If your child is vegetarian, lactose intolerant, or has other food sensitivities or allergies, without a dietary supplement, he could be missing out on some vital nutrients.
3. Your toddler has a chronic medical condition like asthma or digestive problems that could be linked to vitamin deficits.
4. Your toddler regularly takes medications. Some medicines can affect the levels of specific nutrients in the body. (NOTE: Definitely consult a physician before trying supplements if you’re taking any medication.)
5. You’d simply like a little extra health insurance. Kids grow fast and taking a supplement can help close any nutrient gaps to better promote healthy development.
Three important things to note:
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Supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet. Encourage healthy foods as much as possible. Check out our Honest blog posts for family-friendly recipes!
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More is not always better. Some nutrients (like iron) can be toxic or fatal in high doses. Take only what’s recommended.
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Treat vitamins like medicine and keep them safely away from children.
If you feel your child could use a daily multi-vitamin, try Honest's Baby & Toddler Multi Powder or Kid's Multi-Vitamin! They're made with pure, high quality, real food nutrients and their ultra-gentle formulas are perfect for sensitive tummies (and taste buds!). Bonus: Mix the Multi Powder with breast milk, formula, or cold foods (yogurt, cereal, applesauce, etc.) for a quick and easy daily nutrient boost!
This post is solely for informational purposes. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for medical advice. Before undertaking any course of treatment or dietary changes, you should seek the advice of your physician or other health care provider.
We aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and its internal technical experts.
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