My daughter is 13 months old. I was wondering when we should introduce vitamins? I have heard great things about "Jucie Plus". Has anyone tried these or have any other suggestions?
Thanks-
M.
Hi M.,
I have three children 13,14 and 3.5. I have never given them Vitamins.
They are very healthy, big, never head ear infections etc.
Sometimes they get overdosed on Vit. A and Iron wich can damage the liver.
Like the other moms said a good balanced diet is the best,
only maybe if they are sick, some extra,but I would stay away from it.
MC
Hi M.,
I agree that if your kids are eating very well, you don't need to supplement. However, it's very hard to get them all the vitamins they need if you are not buying organic foods and if they are not picky eaters. :) That being said, in most cases, vitamins can "fill in any blanks" they may be missing. Even breastmilk is deficient in iron (I still BF my 7 month old). I am about to start giving my son Shaklee's Via-Lea Infant mix. It's a powder that you put in their food- very easy to deliver. They also have chewables.
If your kids are healthy and don't get sick, you may not need to supplement.
I agree with M R, unless your child's diet is horrible, there's really no need to use vitamins. So many of them appear to be like candy (those sour flintstones are yummy!) and I think that sends the wrong message in a way. As long as your daughter is getting even a minimal amount of fruits and veggies, she's going to be fine.
If you are committed to feeding your child a balanced diet of fruits, veggies, proteins, and grains, then there really is no need to take a vitamin. Just keep offering your child a variety of foods and he/she will be fine.
I know, easier said than done sometimes when all they want to eat is breaded chicken nuggets and applesauce.
i think we started w/liquid ones at around a year.
We waited until around 18 mos. I think when my boys really started getting to be finicky eaters and I wanted to ensure they got all they need. If you child is a good eater and will eat a decent amount of healthy foods you shouldn't need the vitamins. We use the Flinstone ones specially formulated for 2-3 year olds but before that we used the Enfamil Polyvisol liquid vitamins.
My pediatrician recommended we wait to introduce vitamins until age 2. She takes one-half of a chewable every day. I don't know what your doc might say, given your child's age, weight, and eating habits, but supplements are defintely something to talk to your doc about.
