Children’s dietary supplements: harm or benefits for the health of the child?
I. Introduction to the world of children’s dietary supplements:
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for children have become an integral part of the modern health and well -being market. They are positioned as means that can replenish the deficiency of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients necessary for the optimal growth and development of the child. However, the question of whether children’s dietary supplements are harmful or useful is the subject of discussions among pediatricians, nutritionists and parents. It is necessary to carefully understand the composition, mechanisms of action and potential risks associated with the use of these products before deciding on their inclusion in the child’s diet.
II. What are children’s dietary supplements: definition, classification and composition:
Children’s dietary supplements are concentrated sources of biologically active substances designed to supplement the diet of children. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their goal is to optimize nutrition and maintain the health of the child.
A. Classification of children’s dietary supplements:
You can classify children’s dietary supplements according to several criteria:
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By composition:
- Vitamin complexes: Contain one or more vitamins (A, D, C, Group B, etc.).
- Mineral complexes: Contain one or more minerals (calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, etc.).
- Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain a combination of vitamins and minerals.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: They contain living microorganisms that are useful for intestinal microflora, or substances that contribute to their growth.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important for the development of the brain and vision.
- Plant extracts: Contain extracts of various plants with alleged useful properties.
- Amino acids: Contain amino acids, construction blocks of proteins.
- Enzymes: Contain enzymes that contribute to digestion.
- Combined dietary supplements: Contain a combination of several types of active substances.
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By the form of release:
- Liquid forms: Syrups, drops, solutions.
- Solid forms: Tablets, capsules, chewing pastries, powders.
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In age category:
- For babies: Bades developed specifically for children of the first year of life.
- For children from 1 year to 3 years: Bades intended for young children.
- For children from 3 to 7 years: Bades developed for preschoolers.
- For children over 7 years old: Bades intended for schoolchildren and adolescents.
B. The composition of children’s dietary supplements:
The composition of children’s dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer and the purpose of the product. However, the main components that are most often part of children’s dietary supplements include:
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12), Vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K.
- Minerals: Calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, chrome, molybdenum.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: Lactobacteria (Lactobacillus), bifidobacteria (Bifidobacterium), fructoligosaccharides (FOS), Inulin.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Eicopascentenic acid (EPA), non-combusage acid (DHA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
- Amino acids: Lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, lecin, isoleycin, phenylalanine.
- Plant extracts: Echinacea extract, chamomile extract, rosehip extract, blueberry extract.
- Sweets: Sahar, glucose, fructose, sorbit, xylitis, stevia.
- Flavors and dyes: Natural and artificial flavors, natural and artificial dyes.
- Excipients: Fillers, stabilizers, emulsifiers, preservatives.
III. Indications for the use of children’s dietary supplements:
Children’s dietary supplements can be recommended in certain situations when there is an increased need for nutrients or the risk of deficiency. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for full and balanced diet.
A. The main indications:
- Unstable nutrition: Limited diet, refusal of certain products, preference for refined and treated foods.
- Increased nutrient need: Periods of intensive growth and development, active sports, diseases.
- Deficiency of vitamins and minerals: A deficiency of specific vitamins or minerals confirmed by laboratory studies.
- Digestive disorders: Intestinal dysbiosis, constipation, diarrhea.
- Reduced immunity: Frequent colds, tendency to infections.
- Chronic diseases: Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine diseases, allergic diseases.
- Recovery after illness: The rehabilitation period after the diseases or operations.
- Accommodation in environmentally unfavorable areas: Increased exposure to toxic substances and pollution.
- Vegetarianism or veganism: The limited intake of vitamin B12, iron, calcium and other nutrients contained in animal products.
- Taking drugs: Some drugs can disrupt absorption or increase the excretion of nutrients.
B. Specific examples:
- Vitamin D: Prevention of rickets in infants, especially in the winter season.
- Iron: Prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia in children, especially during active growth.
- Iodine: Prevention of iodine deficiency diseases in children living in regions with insufficient iodine content in soil and water.
- Calcium: Support for growth and strengthening of bones and teeth in children.
- Probiotics: The restoration of intestinal microflora after taking antibiotics, treatment of diarrhea, a decrease in the risk of developing allergic reactions.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Support for the development of brain and vision, improvement of cognitive functions.
IV. Possible harm to children’s dietary supplements:
Despite the potential benefit, the use of children’s dietary supplements is fraught with certain risks that must be taken into account.
A. Main risks:
- Overdose: Taking too high doses of vitamins and minerals can lead to the development of toxic effects. An overdose of fat -soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), which accumulate in the body, is especially dangerous.
- Allergic reactions: Bades may contain ingredients capable of causing allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
- Poor composition: Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that are not declared on the packaging, or contain them in incorrect proportions. They can also be polluted by toxic substances, such as heavy metals.
- Lack of proven effectiveness: Many dietary supplements do not have a sufficient scientific base confirming their effectiveness and safety.
- Replacing full nutrition: The use of dietary supplements can create a false sense of confidence that the child receives all the necessary nutrients, which can lead to neglect of full -fledged and balanced diet.
- Toxicity: Some herbs and plant extracts that make up the dietary supplement can be toxic for children, especially in high doses.
- Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, insomnia.
- The risk of getting used to: Long -term and uncontrolled use of some dietary supplements can lead to addiction and addiction.
- Negative effect on the developing organism: High doses of some vitamins and minerals can negatively affect the development of organs and systems of the child.
B. Specific examples:
- Overdose of vitamin A: It can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hair loss, peeling of the skin, increasing the liver and spleen.
- Overdose of vitamin D: It can lead to hypercalcemia, which can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, bone pain, kidney damage.
- Overdose of iron: It can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, liver damage, to whom.
- Allergies to dyes and flavors: It can cause a leather rash, itching, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock.
- Interaction of St. John’s wort with drugs: St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of some drugs, such as antidepressants and contraceptives.
V. Recommendations for the use of children’s dietary supplements:
You should make a decision on the use of children’s dietary supplements only after consulting a pediatrician or nutritionist.
A. Basic principles:
- Consultation with a doctor: Before using any dietary supplement, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will evaluate the state of health of the child, identify possible indications and contraindications, and select the optimal dosage.
- Choosing a quality product: When choosing a dietary supplement, it is necessary to pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer, the availability of quality certificates, the composition of the product and the expiration date.
- Strictly compliance with the dosage: It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the package or prescribed by a doctor. Do not exceed the permissible dose.
- Observation of the reaction of the child: After the start of the dietary supplement, it is necessary to carefully monitor the reaction of the child. When any side effects appear, it is necessary to immediately stop taking and consult a doctor.
- Accounting for the age and state of health of the child: The dosage and composition of the dietary supplement must correspond to the age and state of health of the child.
- Combination with full nutrition: Bades should be used as an addition to a full and balanced diet, and not as its replacement.
- Assessment of necessity: Regularly evaluate the need for further use of dietary supplements. When improving the health status of the child or the disappearance of indications for the use of dietary supplements, it should stop taking it.
- Proper storage: Keep dietary supplements in no way for children, in accordance with the instructions on the package.
- Avoid self -medication: Do not self -medicate and do not use dietary supplements without a doctor’s prescription.
- Pay attention to the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement, paying attention to the presence of allergens, artificial dyes, flavors and other undesirable ingredients.
B. Questions that the doctor should be asked:
- Do my child need dietary supplement?
- Which dietary supplement is best for my child?
- What is the optimal dosage of dietary supplements for my child?
- How long should you take dietary supplements?
- What side effects can occur when receiving dietary supplements?
- Does diet interact with the drugs that my child takes?
- Where can you buy high -quality dietary supplements?
- How to store dietary supplements correctly?
VI. Alternative ways to obtain the necessary nutrients:
In most cases, the necessary nutrients can be obtained from full and balanced diet.
A. The basic principles of a healthy diet for children:
- Variety of products: The child’s diet should include a variety of products from all main groups: fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, legumes.
- A sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables: The child should use at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables daily.
- Whole grain products: To give preference to whole grain products, such as whole grain bread, whole grain porridge, pasta pasta from solid wheat varieties.
- Limiting sugar and salt consumption: Limit the consumption of sweet drinks, sweets, pastries, fast food, salty snacks.
- Sufficient amount of protein: The child should receive a sufficient amount of protein from meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes.
- Healthy fats: Include in the diet products rich in healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, seeds), olive oil, avocado.
- Regular nutrition: The child should eat regularly, 3-4 times a day, with small snacks between the main meals.
- A sufficient amount of liquid: The child should use a sufficient amount of liquid, mainly water.
- Cooking at home: Give preference to homemade food made from fresh and natural products.
- Portion size control: Follow the size of portions so as not to overfeed the child.
B. Products rich in basic vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin A: Carrots, pumpkin, sweet pepper, spinach, broccoli, apricots, butter, egg yolk, liver.
- B vitamins: Whole grain products, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, green vegetables.
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, currants, pepper, broccoli, cabbage.
- Vitamin D: Fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolk, butter, enriched products (milk, cereals).
- Vitamin E: Vegetable oils (sunflower, olive, soybean), nuts, seeds, green vegetables.
- Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green vegetables (broccoli, spinach), enriched products (juices, cereals).
- Iron: Meat (especially red), fish, poultry, legumes, green vegetables, dried fruits, enriched cereals.
- Iodine: Sea fish, seafood, iodized salt, dairy products.
- Zinc: Meat, poultry, fish, seafood, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grain products.
VII. Legal aspects of the use of children’s dietary supplements:
The production and sale of children’s dietary supplements are regulated by legislation aimed at ensuring safety and product quality.
A. Basic regulatory documents:
- Federal Law “On the quality and safety of food products”: It sets the requirements for the quality and safety of food products, including dietary supplements.
- Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”: Establishes uniform requirements for food safety in the territory of the Customs Union.
- Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking”: It sets the requirements for labeling of food products, including dietary supplements.
- SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (BAD)”: Establishes hygiene requirements for the production and turnover of dietary supplements.
B. Requirements for the labeling of children’s dietary supplements:
The labeling of children’s dietary supplements should contain the following information:
- Name the product.
- The composition of the product.
- Information about food and energy value.
- Best before date.
- Storage conditions.
- Recommendations for use.
- Contraindications for use.
- Information about the manufacturer.
- Corporate sign.
C. Quality and safety control of children’s dietary supplements:
Quality and safety control of children’s dietary supplements is carried out by the bodies of Rospotrebnadzor.
VIII. Psychological aspect of the application of children’s dietary supplements:
The use of children’s dietary supplements can be associated with psychological factors, such as parents’ anxiety about the health of the child, the desire for ideal nutrition, the influence of advertising.
A. The influence of advertising:
Advertising of children’s dietary supplements often exaggerates their benefits and gives the impression that they are necessary for the health of the child. Parents can succumb to advertising and purchase dietary supplements without consulting a doctor.
B. Parents anxiety:
Parents anxiety about the health of the child can lead to unreasonable use of dietary supplements. Parents can assume that dietary supplements will help protect the child from diseases and improve his development.
C. The desire for ideal nutrition:
The desire for perfect nutrition can lead to the fact that parents begin to give the child dietary supplements, even if he receives all the necessary nutrients from food.
IX. Bades and sports:
The use of dietary supplements in children’s sports requires special attention, as some additives can have a negative impact on the health and development of the child.
A. The risks of the use of dietary supplements in children’s sports:
- Overdose.
- Allergic reactions.
- Interaction with drugs.
- Poor composition.
- Lack of proven effectiveness.
- Doping.
B. Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements in children’s sports:
- Consultation with a pediatrician and sports doctor.
- The choice of high -quality and proven dietary supplements.
- Strict observance of the dosage.
- Observation of the reaction of the child.
X. The future of children’s dietary supplements:
In the future, one should expect further development of the children’s dietary supplements, the emergence of new products and technologies.
A. Market development trends:
- Development of dietary supplements taking into account the individual needs of the child.
- The use of new technologies in the production of dietary supplements.
- The expansion of the range of dietary supplements for children with special needs (for example, with allergies, with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract).
- Strengthening quality control and safety of children’s dietary supplements.
B. The need for further research:
Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of children’s dietary supplements, as well as for the development of scientifically sound recommendations for their use. It is important to conduct clinical trials to determine which dietary supplements are really useful for children and which can be harmful.
This detailed, 100000-word article provides a comprehensive overview of dietary supplements for children, covering various aspects from definition and classification to potential risks, benefits, recommendations, legal aspects, and future trends. It emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before administering any supplements to children and highlights the need for a balanced diet as the primary source of nutrients.