Every parent wants to see their child grow up to be healthy and happy. Growth and development during infancy and childhood occurs at a very rapid rate so it’s important to make sure that the right balance of nutrients is available during this important period; good nutrition provides the foundation for children’s health. The consequences of poor nutrition include

• failure to thrive
• poor immunity
• intellectual difficulties
• poor eye health
• weak bones and teeth and even
• behavioural problems

There are a number of healthy, natural options to help support your child’s health and happiness, giving you greater peace of mind.

• Nutritional support Children’s nutritional requirements can vary widely, depending upon their age, growth rate and level of physical activity. A vitamin or mineral deficiency can take weeks or months to emerge and can lead to serious health problems. While a well-balanced diet will always play an essential role for good health, if you think your child is consistently missing out on important vitamins and minerals, consider a quality children’s multivitamin and mineral formula for nutritional insurance.

• Immune health It can be a challenge keeping your child healthy when they’re at school or in childcare; both places can be notorious breeding grounds for bugs. Children are susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections (URTI’s) as they don’t have a fully developed immune system with children averaging 6-8 URTI’s each year, particularly in winter. Vitamin D deficiency is emerging as a major paediatric health issue in Australia, usually more pronounced during winter when we have shorter days and less exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D, can help to strengthen immune function. Echinacea also supports healthy immune function and may reduce the severity and duration of colds, flu and URTI’s, while providing symptomatic relief.

• Brain and eye health Many children don’t like to eat fish so they may not be getting enough omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA’s). EFA‘s are found in high concentrations in the brain and eyes, providing optimal learning ability, mental development, cognitive function, neurological development and eye health. If eating fish is a problem, consider a quality children’s fish oil supplement.

• Strong bones & teeth Around 50% of children in Australia don’t consume enough calcium. Excess intake of soft drinks, high dietary fats and sugar increases calcium excretion. Calcium deficiency leads to an increase in bone breakdown, increasing the risk of osteoporosis later in life. If you child doesn’t eat enough dairy or green leafy vegetables, consider a quality children’s calcium supplement.

• Behavioural issues Many children suffer from irritability, restlessness, hyperactivity or difficulty falling asleep, resulting in fatigue, poor concentration, daytime sleepiness and mood irregularities; it’s a vicious circle. Magnesium is essential for a healthy nervous system and a deficiency can lead to irritability, insomnia and decreased attention span. Lactium^®, a natural milk protein, has a calming and relaxing effect on children and several clinical studies have shown Lactium^® to be beneficial for sleep and stress. Chamomile, a classic children’s herb, is used to help calm restless and irritable children and induce sleep, and is effective in calming upset tummy’s which may result from stress.

Mr Vitamins recommends

Herbs of Gold Products for Children's Health and Happiness

• Children’s Multi Care
• Children’s Fish-i Care
• Children’s Calci Care
• Children’s Immune Care
• Children’s Calm Care

Find out more about these great products for children's health here