Ensuring Nutrition for Your Little One: The Role of Multivitamins

Becoming a parent brings with it a rollercoaster of emotions. Soon, we find ourselves learning about baby weaning, baby acne, rashes, teething, and colic. There is plenty of literature available on how to handle these issues, but one topic that can feel like a mountain to climb is child nutrition.

The Importance of Nutrition in the First Year

In the first six months of life, our little one's nutrition ideally comes from breast milk. There are many challenges associated with breastfeeding, and more often than not, caregivers are forced to find alternative sources of nutrition, such as formula. Once these first 6 months are over, the important role of providing our children with nutritional complementary meals comes to the foreground. Unfortunately, tantrums and flavour aversions can become a part of every evening's meal routine.

Is My Child Getting Enough Nutrients?

This brings up some important questions: Is my child getting enough nutrients from their food? How do I know if they have any nutritional deficiencies?

To tackle these questions, one must look out for clues and also evaluate when it will be necessary to speak to a paediatrician.

One of the most common deficiencies that arise from picky eating or poor eating habits is a vitamin B deficiency, specifically vitamin B12 - a crucial vitamin for normal growth and development. Vitamin Bs are a group of water-soluble vitamins that are not stored in the body and that are obtained from the foods we eat daily.

Good sources of B vitamins include:

• Salmon
• Leafy greens
• Liver and other organ meats

As we know, children may struggle to get these nutrients for various reasons, such as picky eating, restricted diets, or medical conditions. It is also important to note that during developmental phases, the nutritional needs of children increase.

If you notice a delay in reaching milestones, it might be a good time to consider a multivitamin supplement rich in vitamin B's. These vitamins support normal growth and development, as well as psychological function and the nervous system.

Other Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Other important vitamins to consider are Vitamins A, C, and D. These essential nutrients are crucial for a healthy body:

• Vitamin A supports skin health, vision, and the immune system.
• Vitamin C and Vitamin D are essential for immune function and bone health.

Trace elements that are a must for growth and development, include zinc and iron. Zinc plays a crucial role in cognitive function, immune function and normal growth and development. A multivitamin supplement enriched with zinc can benefit your little one and support their overall wellbeing.

Iron is a very important trace element that is crucial for the health of red blood cells and overall wellbeing.

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If you suspect your little one has an iron deficiency, it is best to visit your healthcare provider.

When to Consult a Paediatrician

If you find that your child is not eating or drinking and appears lethargic almost to the point of unresponsiveness, please visit a paediatrician immediately. 

Sources

SAHPRA Guidelines
https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_1
https://www.jpeds.com/article/S0022-3476%2801%2931040-5/abstract