Have you ever wondered whether vitamins could help with your child's mood, focus or behaviour? Many parents notice their kids have low energy, irritability, poor concentration or mood swings and wonder - are they deficient in certain vitamins?
First things first... Vitamins are not behaviour 'fixers'!
Behaviour is influenced by many factors:
Sleep
Diet
Routine
Screen time
Emotional development
Stress
and more.......
How nutrition and behaviour are linked
A child's brain is developing rapidly. That brain needs fuel - not just calories but specific nutrients to function properly.
When kids are low in certain vitamins or minerals it can affect:
Energy levels, attention and focus, emotional regulation, irritability and mood.
Even mild deficiencies can show up as difficulty concentrating, fatigue and 'meltdowns'.
Vitamins that may support behaviour
B Vitamins
B Vitamins support energy production and the nervous system and brain. Low levels may contribute to fatigue, irritability and poor concentration.
Kids Multivitamin Gummies Canada - Kids Vitamin Doctor – The Kids Vitamin Doctor
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a role in brain health, sleep and mood. Many Canadian kids are low in Vitamin D - especially in fall and winter
Kids Vitamin D Gummies - Low Sugar | Kids Vitamin Doctor – The Kids Vitamin Doctor
Iron
Iron helps carry oxygen to the brain so it is essential that kids have enough. Supplements are usually not needed if eating enough iron rich food. Speak to your doctor before giving iron supplements - a blood test is needed to confirm deficiency. If they are deficient then try upping dietary iron and a supplement may be advised for a few months.
Omega - 3
Omega - 3's support brain development and function. Some research suggests it can help with attention in some children. Omega 3's are found naturally in fish, eggs, flaxseeds and chia seeds. Fish is by far the best source!
The Bottom line
Vitamins are not usually the answer for perfect behaviour - good nutrition is the foundation and if there are gaps in their diet then make sure to supplement.
Kids Multivitamin Gummies Canada - Kids Vitamin Doctor – The Kids Vitamin Doctor