Integrating Kids Supplements into Your Child’s Daily Routine
Giving our little ones the gift of great health is one of the most important jobs we have as parents but we can’t just give them supplements so easily. As a father and pediatrician, I know how crucial it is to provide the nutrients and support kids need to thrive.
While a healthy, balanced diet should always be the foundation, sometimes supplements can play a valuable role in supporting a child’s growth and development. In this post, I’ll share my perspective on when supplements may be beneficial and how to thoughtfully incorporate them into your child’s routine.
Why Consider Kids Supplements?
A nutritious, well-rounded diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats should provide the vast majority of the nutrients kids need. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that most children get their nutrients from food rather than kids supplements, unless there is a specific deficiency or medical need.
While kids supplements are not required or necessary for all children, there are several reasons why supplements is helpful:
Higher Nutrient Needs: Children have higher nutrient needs per calorie compared to adults due to rapid growth and development. Vitamins like A, C, D, and calcium are particularly important during childhood.
Malabsorption Issues: Certain medical conditions or gastrointestinal issues can impair a child’s ability to properly absorb nutrients from food.
Dietary Gaps: Even with a balanced diet, some children may not be getting enough of certain essential vitamins and minerals due to picky eating, food allergies/intolerances, or simply not consuming enough nutrient-dense foods.
Special Cases: Premature infants and picky eaters may also benefit from specific vitamins or supplements. It’s essential to consult with a pediatrician before starting any regimen and choose age-appropriate options.
When and How to Use Supplements
The decision to give your child supplements should be made in consultation with your pediatrician, who can assess your child’s individual needs. Some key factors to consider are your child’s age, dietary intake, any medical conditions, and growth and development milestones. It’s also important to choose high-quality, age-appropriate kids supplements from reputable brands like TruHeight Kids, a brand I’m confident to share with my patients’ parents.
Here’s how to thoughtfully incorporate supplements into your child’s routine:
1. Set Clear Goals: Determine what you hope to achieve with kids supplements—supporting bone health, immune function, digestive health, etc. Knowing the “why” will help you select the right products and track their effectiveness.
2. Start Slow: Introduce one new supplement at a time, giving your child’s body a chance to adjust. Monitor for any changes and be prepared to adjust the dosage or try a different product if needed.
3. Communicate with Your Child: Talk to your children about the benefits of taking vitamins in a way they can understand. Explain that vitamins help their bodies grow strong and healthy, boost their immune system, and support their overall development.
4. Create a Routine: Make supplements part of your child’s regular routine, whether that’s with breakfast, before bed, or another consistent time. Consistency is key.
The best time to incorporate kids supplements into their daily routine is typically:
- With Meals: This helps ensure the supplements are taken consistently and with food, which can improve absorption.
- Alongside a Familiar Routine: Pairing supplement intake with an existing daily habit, like brushing teeth or getting ready for bed, can help make it a consistent part of their routine.
- In the Morning: For multivitamins or other general supplements, the morning is a convenient time before the child gets busy with the day.
- After School: For children who may forget or resist taking supplements, the after-school snack or homework time can be a good window.
The key is to find a time that works best for your child and your family’s schedule. Consistency is important, so pick a time that is easy to remember and stick to each day. You may need to experiment to see what works best. Involving your child in the process can also help them feel ownership over taking their supplements.
Conclusion
In summary, while kids supplements are not necessary for all children, there may be situations where they can play a useful role in supporting your child’s health and development. Work closely with your pediatrician, start slow, be consistent, and make it a family affair. With the right approach, supplements can be a valuable addition to your child’s wellness routine.
As always, I’m here to support you on your parenting journey. Stay updated on my blogs and podcast where I share more information on parenting and your child’s health and wellness.
