Vitamins and Supplements for Kids: What Parents Should Know

You might wonder if you should give your child a daily vitamin or supplement. For most healthy children who eat a well-balanced diet, vitamins and supplements are not necessary. Eating a well-balanced diet that provides vitamins and minerals naturally is the best way for kids to absorb the nutrients their bodies need. However, in some specific situations, vitamins and supplements may be needed to support your child's health and development. In this blog, we share what to know about vitamins and supplements and when they're needed.

Children who have dietary restrictions or are picky eaters may need vitamins or supplements to fulfill their nutritional requirements. For example, toddlers who avoid dairy products might not get enough calcium or vitamin D through food alone. Children who follow a plant-based diet exclusively may not get enough vitamin B12. In these cases, vitamins and supplements could be beneficial. But it's important to talk to your pediatrician first so they can help you choose the right product and dose for your child’s age and needs. This ensures that it complements, instead of replacing, healthy eating habits.

Vitamin D deserves special attention because it’s crucial for bone health and immune function. Many kids, especially those who get limited sun exposure, may not produce enough vitamin D naturally. While some foods are fortified with vitamin D (like milk and certain cereals), it can still be challenging to get enough through diet alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that infants, older children, and adolescents might benefit from vitamin D supplements, particularly if they aren’t drinking Vitamin-D-fortified milk or spending regular time outdoors. Vitamin D supplements are especially important for breastfed infants, since human milk does not supply enough vitamin D on its own. Your pediatrician can guide you on the appropriate dose based on age, diet, and sun exposure.

You’ve likely seen vitamins and supplements marketed as ways to "boost immunity" or prevent colds and flu. While these claims may sound appealing, the evidence for immune enhancement through supplemental vitamins in otherwise healthy children is limited. Good nutrition, adequate sleep, physical activity, and regular handwashing are far more effective ways to support your child’s immune health than relying on pills or gummies. It is important to be careful not to use high doses of supplements for immunity without clear evidence or medical supervision, as excessive intake of some vitamins can lead to side effects.

Keep in mind that just because vitamins and supplements are sold over the counter doesn’t mean they’re automatically safe in any amount. Some supplements, especially when taken in excessive doses, can cause toxicity or interact with medications your child may be taking. For example, too much vitamin A can be harmful and may lead to symptoms like nausea or headaches. Even commonly used multivitamins can pose risks if doses exceed recommended levels. It’s also important to keep supplements out of the reach of children. The bright colors and sweet flavors of chewable vitamins can look like candy to young kids, creating a risk of accidental over-consumption.

Good nutrition and healthy habits are the building blocks of lifelong wellness. Vitamins can be helpful when used under medical guidance, but they are not a shortcut around balanced meals and healthy lifestyle choices. If you have questions about vitamins or supplements or about your child's diet, call our office.