Children’s Multivitamins: When Supplements May—and May Not—Be Needed

A multivitamin can look like an easy nutritional safety net, but the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend routine vitamin supplementation above recommended dietary allowances for healthy children who eat a normal, well-balanced diet.

Start with food

Foods provide nutrients together with protein, fiber, fats and other components that supplements do not reproduce. For most healthy children, the first priority is a varied eating pattern that includes fruits and vegetables, grains, protein foods and appropriate dairy or fortified alternatives.

When supplements may be considered

A pediatrician or qualified dietitian may recommend a supplement when a child has a diagnosed deficiency, a diet that excludes important nutrient sources, a medical condition that affects nutrient intake or absorption, or another specific nutritional need.

More is not automatically better

Vitamins and minerals can cause adverse effects when taken in excessive amounts. Families should check serving size, age directions and overlapping nutrients when more than one supplement is being used.

Educational information only. A child’s pediatrician can help determine whether a supplement is appropriate for that child’s diet, age and health history.