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Dietary Supplements
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Dietary supplements are products that contain ingredients meant to "supplement" the diet. They include vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, enzymes or other ingredients and are sold in the form of pills, capsules, liquids, powders or bars. Dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA under the category of "food" rather than "medicine."
Researchers estimate about 50 percent of American adults take dietary supplements. Supplements are used by nearly 32 percent of children (18 and under). Vitamins and minerals are the most common types of supplements taken by adults and children.
Nutritional Needs for Children
Ideally, a healthy diet provides us with all the nutrients our body needs to grow and thrive. In reality, many people don't always eat a well-balanced diet. It's especially important for children to get the right nutrition to feed their growing bodies and developing brains. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends supplements for children who may be at risk for deficiencies due to an inadequate intake, or environmental or lifestyle factors. Children with food allergies or other dietary problems may have specific nutritional needs based on food limitations.
Alan Christianson, N.M.D., a Naturopathic Physician with Integrative Health Care in Scottsdale, AZ, says one of the most common dietary deficiencies during childhood is iron. Iron is important to help red blood cells carry oxygen and for growth, healing, healthy immune system functioning and reproduction.
Some children don't get enough vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C plays a role in the synthesis of collagen, brain chemicals (called neurotransmitters) and carnitine (a molecule that carries fat to cells to use as energy). Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that can protect the body from damage by free radicals. Human bodies can't make vitamin C, so we must get it in the food we eat or in supplements.
Children who don't eat drink enough milk or eat dairy products may need calcium supplements. Calcium is needed to maintain strong bones and teeth. It's also important for cell signaling, blood vessel function, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and secretion of hormones.
Magnesium may be needed for children who don't eat enough vegetables. Magnesium places a role in energy production, formation of bone and cell membranes, conduction of nerve impulses and heart rhythm and cell signaling.
Omega-3 fatty acid (alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA) is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid that can't be made by the body and must come from food. It's converted into two other fatty acids, called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA). ALA comes from leafy green vegetables, nuts and some kinds of vegetable oils. EPA and DHA are found in fish and organ meat. Studies show a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may protect against cardiovascular disease and reduce joint tenderness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. There is also some evidence omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in brain function. However, this link has not been definitely proven.
Choosing a Supplement for Children
Christianson says parents should consider a multivitamin supplement for children once the transition begins to solid food. There are many different brands available and they can be found in the form of a liquid, chewable, tablet or capsule. Chewables are good for children who have trouble swallowing pills. They tend to have flavoring so the taste is acceptable. However, Christianson recommends watching for too much added sugar or artificial color or flavor. Sugar-substitutes in sugar-free vitamins can cause digestive problems in some children and lead to poor absorption of the ingredients in the supplement.
Parents who give their child a supplement should check the label for dosing recommendations. Don't exceed the recommended amounts because excess amounts of some supplements can be dangerous. Also read the label for the types of ingredients in the product. Depending upon a child's needs, extra supplementation may be needed for certain vitamins or minerals.
Over-the-counter supplements may seem like harmless substances. But certain supplements may interact with medications. So it's important to let the family physician know if a child is taking a dietary supplement.
For information on dietary supplements, including use of vitamins and minerals: FDA, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
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