The ABCs of Vitamins

from Shine Newsletter, Spring 2006

You’ve probably scoured the shelves at your local drugstore to find vitamin supplements that will give your child the best chance at good health.   However, you may want to shift your focus to what you’re putting in your grocery cart and on the table.

“Typically, if children eat a healthy diet, they don’t need supplemental vitamins,” says Nancy Krebs, MD, MS, pediatrician on staff at The Children’s Hospital. “If a vitamin deficiency occurs, the child will experience poor growth, rashes, excessive bruising or some other clue that the child is not well. In such an instance, your physician can recommend an appropriate supplement.”

An Alphabet of Vitamins

Vitamins are found in practically every natural food on the market.   Listed below are a few vitamins your children need, the foods that provide them and the daily amount your child needs.

School-Age Challenge

For parents with school-age children, another obstacle stands between their children and adequate vitamin intake — school lunches and fast food. Despite years of training in the ways of proper eating, there likely may be days when children will skip a well-rounded meal and opt for ice cream and soda instead.

“You can’t determine everything your children are going to eat,”

Dr. Krebs says. “Don’t worry about every bite they take; rather, take comfort in knowing you’ve instilled an understanding of healthy food choices — something they’ll carry with them for a lifetime.”

Not sure your child is getting enough of the right vitamins?  Ask your child’s doctor or schedule an appointment with a nutrition expert at The Children’s Hospital by calling 720-777-1234.