Vitamins for children: side effects and contraindications

Vitamins for children: side effects and contraindications

I. Introduction to the world of children’s vitamins: necessity, benefit and risks

Vitamins play a critical role in the growth, development and general health of children. They participate in many biochemical processes, support the immune system, contribute to the formation of bones and tissues, and also ensure the normal functioning of the nervous system. In the ideal world, children would receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, grain, proteins and dairy products. However, in reality, achieving such an ideal is not always possible.

The reasons why children may need an additional technique of vitamins are diverse:

• Limited diet: Children, especially picky in food, may not receive a sufficient number of certain vitamins and minerals from food. Restrictions in the diet can be associated with food allergies, intolerance to certain products (for example, lactose), vegetarian or vegan nutrition.
• Insufficient stay in the sun: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Children who spend little time in the open air, especially in the winter months, may experience a deficiency of vitamin D. This is especially true for children living in the northern latitudes.
• Certain diseases and conditions: Some diseases and conditions, such as chronic intestinal diseases (for example, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), cystic fibrosis or celiac disease, can violate the absorption of vitamins and minerals from food. Children taking certain drugs may also need additional vitamins, since some drugs can affect the absorption or metabolism of vitamins.
• Expense growth periods: During periods of intensive growth, such as infancy and adolescence, the need for vitamins and minerals increases. In these periods, a deficiency of certain vitamins can lead to growth and development delay.
• Nedness: Premature children often need additional vitamins and minerals, since they have not received enough nutrients during pregnancy.
• Accommodation in environmentally unfavorable areas: Children living in areas with contaminated air or soil may need additional vitamins to protect against the negative environmental effects.

While vitamins can be useful for children, it is important to understand that they are not a panacea. Excessive use of vitamins can lead to undesirable side effects and even be dangerous to health. Therefore, before you start giving the child vitamins, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, determine if he has a shortage of any vitamins or minerals, and recommend a suitable dosage.

It is important to remember that vitamins are an addition to a healthy diet, and not replacing it. The best way to provide the child with all the necessary nutrients is to offer him a variety of and balanced food.

II. Review of the main vitamins necessary for children: benefits and potential risks

Next, we consider the main vitamins that are often prescribed for children, their role in the body, possible side effects and contraindications.

• Vitamin A (Retinol):

  • Role in the body: Vitamin A is necessary for normal vision, especially in conditions of low illumination. It supports the health of the skin and mucous membranes, strengthens the immune system and promotes the growth and development of cells.
  • Potential risks and side effects: An overdose of vitamin A can lead to hypervitaminosis A, which manifests itself in the form of headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, dry skin and mucous membranes, hair loss, joint pain and bones. In severe cases, hypervitaminosis A can lead to damage to the liver and an increase in intracranial pressure. Hypervitaminosis A is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause congenital defects in the fetus.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to vitamin A, hypervitaminosis A, pregnancy (high doses). Caution should be observed with liver and kidney diseases.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of vitamin A depends on the age and state of health of the child. As a rule, small doses are prescribed for the prevention of deficiency. Before use, you need to consult a doctor.

• B vitamins B:

  • Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN):
    • Role in the body: Tiamin is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, provides energy to the nervous system and supports the health of the heart.
    • Potential risks and side effects: An overdose of thiamine is rare, since it is well soluble in water and is easily excreted from the body. However, in rare cases, when taking high doses, allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting and headache can be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to thiamine.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of thiamine depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with a deficiency of thiamine caused by insufficient nutrition or diseases that violate its absorption.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):
    • Role in the body: Riboflavin is involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, supports the health of the skin and mucous membranes, improves vision and protects cells from oxidative stress.
    • Potential risks and side effects: Riboflavin is also well soluble in water and rarely causes side effects. When taking high doses, urine can be painted in bright yellow, which is normal. In rare cases, allergic reactions can be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to riboflavin.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of riboflavin depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with a deficiency of riboflavin, which can manifest itself in the form of cracks in the corners of the mouth, inflammation of the tongue and skin.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin):
    • Role in the body: Niacin is involved in energy metabolism, supports the health of the nervous system and skin, and reduces blood cholesterol.
    • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of niacin, redness of the skin, itching, nausea, vomiting and dizziness can be observed. In rare cases, liver damage may be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to niacin, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum in the stage of exacerbation, liver disease in the exacerbation stage.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of Niacin depends on the age and state of health of the child. Caution should be observed when taking niacin and not exceed the recommended doses.
  • Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid):
    • Role in the body: Pantotenic acid is involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, the synthesis of hormones and antibodies, and supports the health of the skin and hair.
    • Potential risks and side effects: Pantotenic acid is well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. In rare cases, when taking high doses, diarrhea and discomfort in the abdomen can be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to panthenic acid.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of pantothenic acid depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with pantothenic acid deficiency, which is rare.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin):
    • Role in the body: Pyridoxine is involved in amino acid metabolism, the synthesis of neurotransmitters (substances transmitting nerve impulses), the formation of red blood cells and supports the health of the nervous system.
    • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of pyridoxine, neurological disorders can be observed, such as numbness and tingling in the limbs. In rare cases, liver damage may be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to pyridoxine. Caution should be observed with liver and kidney diseases.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of pyridoxine depends on the age and state of health of the child. Caution should be observed when taking pyridoxine and not exceed the recommended doses.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin):
    • Role in the body: Biotin is involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, supports the health of the skin, hair and nails.
    • Potential risks and side effects: Biotin is well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. In rare cases, allergic reactions can be observed. It is important to note that the intake of biotin can distort the results of some laboratory tests, so before the tests it is necessary to inform the doctor about taking biotin.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to biotin.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of biotin depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with a deficiency of biotin, which is rare.
  • Vitamin B9 (folic acid):
    • Role in the body: Folic acid is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, the formation of red blood cells, the development of the nervous system and is necessary for the normal growth and development of cells. Folic acid for pregnant women is especially important, as it prevents defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.
    • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of folic acid, vitamin B12 deficiency can mask, which can lead to an irreversible damage to the nervous system. In rare cases, allergic reactions can be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to folic acid, vitamin B12 deficiency (without simultaneous intake of vitamin B12).
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of folic acid depends on the age and state of health of the child. It is especially important to take folic acid to pregnant women to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus.
  • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin):
    • Role in the body: Cobalamin is involved in the formation of red blood cells, supports the health of the nervous system and is involved in folic acid metabolism.
    • Potential risks and side effects: Cobalamin is well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. In rare cases, allergic reactions can be observed.
    • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to cobalamin.
    • Recommendations for use: The dosage of cobalamin depends on the age and state of health of the child. Cobalamine for vegetarians and vegans is especially important, as it is contained mainly in animal products.

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):

  • Role in the body: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, is involved in the synthesis of collagen necessary for the health of the skin, bones and connective tissue, improves iron absorption from food.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of vitamin C, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn and increasing acidity of the stomach can be observed. In rare cases, the formation of kidney stones may be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to vitamin C, increased acidity of the stomach, ulcerative disease of the stomach and duodenum in the intensity stage, urolithiasis.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of vitamin C depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed for the prevention and treatment of colds, as well as to strengthen the immune system.

• Vitamin D (calciferol):

  • Role in the body: Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which provides the health of bones and teeth. It also plays an important role in the immune system and is involved in the regulation of cellular growth.
  • Potential risks and side effects: An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypervitaminosis D, which manifests itself in the form of nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, headaches, loss of appetite, increasing the level of calcium in the blood and urine, which can lead to calcium deposit in soft tissues and kidney damage.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to vitamin D, hypervitaminosis D, increased level of calcium in the blood and urine, urolithiasis.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of vitamin D depends on the age and state of health of the child. Vitamin D is especially important for babies and children living in the northern latitudes, as they often experience vitamin D due to insufficient stay in the sun.

• Vitamin E (Tokoferol):

  • Role in the body: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, protects cells from oxidative stress, strengthens the immune system, and supports the health of the skin and eyes.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of vitamin E, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue and blood coagulation can be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to vitamin E, impaired blood coagulation.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of vitamin E depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with vitamin E deficiency, which is rare.

• Vitamin K (Phillokhinon):

  • Role in the body: Vitamin K is necessary for normal blood coagulation. He also plays a role in bone health.
  • Potential risks and side effects: Vitamin K rarely causes side effects. In rare cases, allergic reactions can be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to vitamin K, increased blood coagulation.
  • Recommendations for use: Vitamin K is usually administered to newborn to prevent bleeding. The dosage of vitamin K depends on the age and state of health of the child.

III. Minerals necessary for children: importance and potential risks

In addition to vitamins, minerals also play an important role in children’s health. Consider the main minerals necessary for children, their role in the body, possible side effects and contraindications.

• Calcium:

  • Role in the body: Calcium is necessary for the health of bones and teeth, is involved in muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses and blood coagulation.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of calcium, constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, an increase in the level of calcium in the blood and urine can be observed, which can lead to calcium deposit in soft tissues and kidney damage.
  • Contraindications: Individual calcium intolerance, increased level of calcium in the blood and urine, urolithiasis.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of calcium depends on the age and state of health of the child. Calcium for children during periods of intensive growth is especially important, as well as for children who do not receive enough calcium from food (for example, with lactose intolerance).

• Iron:

  • Role in the body: Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells, which transfers oxygen from lungs to tissues. Iron also participates in the work of the immune system and brain development.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of iron, constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and black stool can be observed. In severe cases, an overdose of iron can lead to poisoning, which can be fatal.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to iron, hemochromatosis (hereditary disease, characterized by increased deposition of iron in the body), hemosiderosis (secondary deposition of iron in the body).
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of iron depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with iron deficiency (iron deficiency anemia). It is important to be careful when taking iron and not exceed the recommended doses. Iron is better absorbed while taking vitamin C.

• Zinc:

  • Role in the body: Zinc is necessary for the operation of the immune system, healing of wounds, growth and development of cells, as well as for a normal sense of taste and smell.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of zinc, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and a decrease in the level of copper in the body can be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to zinc.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of zinc depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with zinc deficiency, which can manifest itself as a delay in growth, reducing immunity and skin problems.

• Iodine:

  • Role in the body: Iodine is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of iodine, hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function), hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function) and autoimmune thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland) can be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to iodine, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of iodine depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed for the prevention of iodine deficiency, especially in areas with a low iodine content in soil and water.

• Magnesium:

  • Role in the body: Magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including energy metabolism, muscle and nervous system, regulating blood sugar and blood pressure.
  • Potential risks and side effects: When taking high doses of magnesium, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and decrease in blood pressure can be observed.
  • Contraindications: Individual intolerance to magnesium, renal failure.
  • Recommendations for use: The dosage of magnesium depends on the age and state of health of the child. Usually prescribed with a deficiency of magnesium, which can manifest itself in the form of muscle seizures, fatigue and irritability.

IV. Factors affecting the absorption of vitamins and minerals in children

The assimilation of vitamins and minerals is a complex process that many factors affect. Understanding these factors will help optimize the child’s nutrition and provide maximum benefit from taking vitamin and mineral additives.

• Age: In children of different ages, the need for vitamins and minerals is different. In addition, the ability to absorb certain nutrients can change with age. For example, in infants, iron from breast milk is better absorbed than from cow.
• Health status: Some diseases and conditions, such as intestinal chronic diseases, cystic fibrosis or celiac disease, may violate the absorption of vitamins and minerals.
• Medicines: Some drugs can affect the assimilation or metabolism of vitamins and minerals. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the intestinal microflora, which can lead to a decrease in the absorption of vitamins of group B.
• Food habits: A diet rich in processed foods, sugar and fats can reduce the absorption of vitamins and minerals. It is important to offer the child a variety of and balanced foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and proteins.
• Interaction of vitamins and minerals: Some vitamins and minerals can interact with each other, improving or worsening assimilation. For example, vitamin C improves the absorption of iron, and calcium can reduce iron absorption, if taken at the same time.
• Form of vitamin or mineral: Different forms of vitamins and minerals can be absorbed in different ways. For example, iron in the form of hem is better absorbed than iron in the form of a Negem.
• Reception time: Some vitamins and minerals are better absorbed if they take them during food, while others are on an empty stomach. For example, fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are better absorbed if they are taken with food containing fats.
• The condition of the intestinal microflora: Healthy intestinal microflora plays an important role in the assimilation of vitamins and minerals. Taking probiotics can improve the condition of intestinal microflora and increase the absorption of nutrients.
• Genetic factors: Genetic factors can also affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Some people can be genetically predisposed to a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals.

V. Symptoms of deficiency of vitamins and minerals in children

It is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of deficiency of vitamins and minerals in children in order to consult a doctor in a timely manner and begin treatment. Symptoms of deficiency can be different and depend on which vitamin or mineral is not enough.

• General symptoms of deficiency of vitamins and minerals:
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Irritability and moodiness
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Growth and development delay
  • Frequent infections
• Specific symptoms of deficiency of individual vitamins and minerals:
  • Vitamin A: Dryness of the skin and eyes, vision of vision in low illumination (chicken blindness), frequent respiratory infections.
  • B vitamins deficiency: Cracks in the corners of the mouth, inflammation of the tongue, skin rashes, anemia, neurological disorders (numbness and tingling in the limbs).
  • Vitamin C deficiency: Bleeding gums, slow healing of wounds, frequent colds, weakness.
  • Vitamin D deficiency: Rachite (in children), osteomulation (in adults), bone weakness, muscle pain, frequent fractures.
  • Vitamin Deficit E: Muscle weakness, neurological disorders, anemia.
  • Vitamin K deficiency: Bleeding, bruises.
  • Calcium deficiency: Rachite (in children), osteoporosis (in adults), muscle cramps, dental problems.
  • Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency anemia, fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, decrease in concentration of attention.
  • Zinc Deficit: Growth retardation, reducing immunity, skin problems (dermatitis), loss of appetite, violation of a sense of taste and smell.
  • Iodine deficiency: Hypothyroidism (decrease in thyroid function), goiter (increase in thyroid gland), delay in mental and physical development.
  • Magnesium deficiency: Muscle cramps, fatigue, irritability, heart rhythm.

If any of these symptoms appear, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The doctor can prescribe blood tests to determine the level of vitamins and minerals and recommend suitable treatment.

VI. Vitamin complexes for children: how to choose the right

A huge amount of vitamin complexes for children is presented on the market, and the choice of suitable may be difficult. It is important to consider several factors when choosing a vitamin complex:

• Child’s age: Choose a vitamin complex designed for your child’s age. Vitamin complexes for infants and young children usually contain lower doses of vitamins and minerals than complexes for older children and adolescents.
• Composition: Pay attention to the composition of the vitamin complex. It should contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in dosages corresponding to the needs of your child. Avoid complexes containing artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives.
• Output form: Vitamin complexes are produced in various forms, such as tablets, chewing tablets, syrups, drops and jelly sweets. Choose a form that will be most convenient for your child.
• Brand: Choose vitamin complexes from known and proven brands. This guarantees the quality and safety of the product.
• Doct’s recommendations: Before you start giving your child a vitamin complex, consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, determine if he has a shortage of any vitamins or minerals, and recommend a suitable vitamin complex and dosage.
• Reviews: Read other parents’ reviews about the vitamin complex that you are considering. This will help you learn about its effectiveness and tolerance.
• Price: The price of vitamin complexes can vary in a wide range. It is not necessary to buy the most expensive vitamin complex. The main thing is that he is of high quality and corresponds to the needs of your child.

VII. Food sources of vitamins and minerals: an alternative to additives

The best way to provide the child with all the necessary vitamins and minerals is to offer him a variety of and balanced food. Here are some food sources of vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin A: Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, broccoli, apricots, mangoes, egg yolks, liver.
• B vitamins B: Whole grain products, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables.
• Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes.
• Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolks, enriched dairy products.
• Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados, spinach.
• Vitamin K: Green leaf vegetables (spinach, broccoli, cabbage), vegetable oils.
• Calcium: Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, enriched products (for example, tofu, juice).
• Iron: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables, enriched grain products.
• Zinc: Meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grain products.
• Iodine: Iodized salt, seafood, dairy products.
• Magnesium: Nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grain products.

Try to include a variety of foods from all food groups in the child’s diet to provide it with all the necessary vitamins and minerals.

VIII. Tips for the safe use of vitamins and minerals in children

To ensure the safe use of vitamins and minerals in children, follow these tips:

• Consult a doctor: Before you start giving a child vitamins or minerals, consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate the state of health of the child and recommend a suitable dosage.
• Follow the recommended dosages: Do not exceed the recommended dosages of vitamins and minerals. An overdose can be dangerous to health.
• Keep vitamins and minerals in an inaccessible place for children: Children can take vitamins for sweets and eat them in large quantities.
• Pay attention to the interaction of vitamins and minerals with drugs: Some vitamins and minerals can interact with medicines. Tell the doctor about all the medicines that your child takes to avoid unwanted interactions.
• Do not give vitamins and minerals with milk: Calcium in milk can reduce the absorption of some vitamins and minerals, especially iron.
• Pay attention to side effects: If the child has any side effects after taking vitamins or minerals, stop taking them and consult a doctor.
• Do not use vitamins and minerals as a replacement for a healthy diet: Vitamins and minerals are an addition to a healthy diet, and not replacing it.

Compliance with these tips will help you ensure the safe and efficient use of vitamins and minerals in children.