No matter how parents try, not every child will eat enough fruits and vegetables. Even pediatricians recommend vitamin supplements for most kids. But with so many different mutlivitamins available, choosing one can be downright confusing. Read on to learn more about buying the best vitamins for kids.
Vitamins Without Additives
Read your labels carefully. Many kids' vitamins are laden with chemicals, artificial colors, sweeteners, and other synthetic nutrients that do nothing to promote your child's good health, and can in fact harm it. Artificial colors are denoted by the color's name and followed by a number, and should be avoided.
Pass over vitamins with aspartame, the synthetic sweetener found in diet sodas. Synthetic forms of nutrients, like Vitamin E, can block the absorption of other vitamins. And definitely avoid chemical ethyl cellulose, a toxic solvent derived from petroleum.
Whole Foods Vitamins
Whole foods vitamins are vitamins made from whole vegetables and fruits. The body uses these types of vitamins much better than synthetic forms. Also, whole foods vitamins rarely contain chemicals or unhealthy additives like the chemically produced ones do. For the best selection of these types of vitamins, your local health food store is your best bet, or order online.
Other Factors
Make sure to always give your children vitamins made for kids. Some vitamins are toxic at higher doses, such as Vitamin A and iron, making adult vitamins an unsafe choice. Also, do your research. Not all vitamin manufacturers are created equal. Check to make sure the vitamins are tested, and don't hesitate to call the company and ask questions. Bottles stamped with USP, NSF, or consumerlab.com mean that the manufacturer has performed some testing on the vitamins. A recent FDA report finds that some children's vitamins contain lead. Look for those that contain none or the least amounts, if possible.
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