The effect of nutritional supplements on children’s growth
Children’s growth and development depends on several factors including proper nutrition, genetics, environment, and overall health. In the meantime, food supplements can play an effective role in providing the nutrients children need in certain circumstances. This article examines the effect of nutritional supplements on children’s growth, the essentials and points related to their consumption.
Nutritional needs of children
During the growth period, children need different nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Deficiency of any of these substances may lead to problems in physical, mental or immune development.
Essential nutrients for children’s growth include proteins, vitamin D, calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, omega 3, etc.
Most parents are worried about their children’s nutritional status and constantly ask themselves: When are supplements necessary?
If the child’s diet is balanced and varied, there is usually no need for nutritional supplements. However, supplementation may be necessary in the following situations:
– Lack of nutrients due to insufficient or unbalanced diet.
– The presence of diseases that disrupt the absorption of nutrients (such as celiac disease or digestive disorders).
– Children with low appetite or lower than normal weight.
– Vegetarianism or restrictive diets.
– Living in areas where access to rich food sources is limited.
Food supplements and their effect on children’s growth
Improve physical growth
Taking supplements containing calcium, vitamin D, and protein can help promote bone and muscle growth in children, especially in children who are malnourished.
Boosting the immune system
Vitamin C, zinc and probiotics are among the supplements that can improve the function of the immune system and make the child more resistant to diseases.
Effect on mental development
Omega-3 fatty acids and iron play an important role in brain development, increasing concentration and improving memory. Deficiency of these substances may cause delayed mental development and learning problems.
Prevention of diseases
Supplements such as multivitamins and probiotics can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and reduce the risk of malnutrition-related diseases.
Food supplements can play an important role in providing nutrients needed by children and help their physical and mental development. However, the best way for a child to grow up healthy is to have a balanced and varied diet. The use of supplements should be done with the guidance of an expert and according to the needs of the child.
