Toddlers are famous for their erratic eating habits, deciding to try everything in sight one day and then suddenly refusing old favorites the next.[1] Picky eating is a normal phase at this age, but you still might wonder if your tot could use a nutritional bonus in the form of a multivitamin.[2]
To help you make the right decision for your child, speak with the pediatrician about her particular diet. Next, learn what the experts say about supplements and children, the pros and cons of taking a multivitamin and some smart ways to get your toddler on a healthy eating path. With enough time and a little patience, your tot will soon dine with gusto at the table. Bon appétit!
Should toddlers take multivitamins?
The official stance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is this: Kids who eat well-balanced meals don't need extra vitamins and minerals from a chewable.[3] The one exception to this is vitamin D. Since many babies and toddlers don't get enough of this important nutrient from the formula or breastmilk alone, your pediatrician may recommend vitamin D drops for your little one.[4]
And while you may think your tot literally exists on air and a bit of cereal, this doesn't mean she's suffering nutritionally. Experts say that even picky eaters can get what they need from the (minimal) foods they consume.[5] And that cereal? Those little O's, along with the milk in the bowl and the orange juice on the side, are all fortified with important vitamins and minerals. Phew!
When do kids need multivitamins?
While kids who eat pretty well most days of the week are likely doing just fine nutritionally, there are some cases when a multivitamin may be needed, such as a tot who seems to survive solely on white foods.[6] In this case, ask the pediatrician if a vitamin might act as an insurance policy for your toddler, filling any nutrition gaps her diet may have, as well as offering some peace of mind for you.
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Babies and toddlers may also benefit from multivitamins if they've experienced a physical or developmental delay in their growth or if they have a chronic disease or food allergies. Certain tots on restricted diets may benefit from getting an extra boost of nutrients. For instance, kids who don't drink milk because they are lactose intolerant may require extra calcium and vitamin D.
Children who eat a vegan diet (meaning no meat, eggs or dairy) may also need extra vitamins B12 and D, as well as riboflavin, calcium and iron. In these cases, a multivitamin may be helpful or even needed, so have a conversation with your child's doctor and get his or her opinion.
Downsides of multivitamins for toddlers
While the extra protection from a multi can feel like a good thing, it could cause you to relax too much.
Some parents let vitamins do the heavy lifting, but supplements shouldn't replace nutritious whole foods. The body absorbs nutrients from food much more effectively than it does from supplements.
In fact, a new strategy is needed if you find yourself frequently relying on a multivitamin to make up for the fact that your toddler refuses to eat any fresh produce.
Another downside to having multivitamins in the house is that they're marketed to kids (and their parents) in a very appealing way. Many are tied to cartoon characters or sport pastel shades, while others come in gummy form, which aren't good for kids' teeth.
There's the possibility your tot may accidentally down too many because they're so sweet and attractive. And taking very large doses of certain vitamins — including A, C and D — can result in symptoms like headaches, rashes and nausea.
How to choose multivitamins for your toddler
If you still think your child could benefit from taking a multivitamin, check in with her physician for some advice. And for a few tips in choosing the right one, check out the following:
- Read the labels. Pick a multivitamin that's made for kids. This will ensure that you're giving your toddler the right amount of nutrients for her little body. Since the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate supplements before they go to market in the same way as drugs, check to see if packaging includes a certified mark from a third-party testing agency such as USP or NSF International.
- Check the dose. Never try to double up on a vitamin, even if you think she needs it. Instead, only give your toddler the recommended dose as overdoing a supplement can be dangerous.
- Don't call it candy. This practice can backfire as it could have your toddler begging for more. (The multi's cartoon-character shapes are tempting enough without being told they're a treat.)
- Store with care. Lock the bottle out of your child's reach to make sure she can't take extra.
- Keep up the good work. Continue coaxing your finicky eater toward a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, lean proteins and whole grains.
How to ensure your toddler is getting enough vitamins
A toddler's appetite often slumps after age 1, and it's normal for tots to go on food strikes too. If your child is going through these phases, strive to be matter-of-fact as you try a few new strategies like smaller portions, different preparations or shopping and cooking together.
But whatever you do, don't take your child's limited palate personally, and try not to worry. If she has a few good meals over the course of the week and she's gaining weight, she's probably fine.
As you consider whether a multivitamin is right for your little one, discuss her nutrition with her doc. You can always ask questions about vitamin D for your breastfeeding baby or B12 for a vegetarian or vegan toddler. Calcium may also be a concern for kids who aren't keen on milk or can't eat dairy.
Together, you'll come up with a plan to keep her growth and development on the right track.
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