The Role of Vitamins in Child Development
Every single bodily function depends on an adequate supply of
vitamins and minerals in the bloodstream, including the growth
process. Nutrition has a major influence on the quality and
speed of cell growth, starting in the uterus and continuing into
adulthood. Poor prenatal nutrition will not only retard the
growth process, but may also lead to birth defects and other
physical abnormalities.
The most important group of vitamins in terms of growth and
development are the vitamins that make up the Vitamin B complex.
The B complex is critical for normal growth in children, as well
as many physical and mental bodily functions. One of the
vitamins with the B complex, Vitamin B12, is especially
important for normal growth in children due to its supply of
cobalt. Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is probably the
most important of the B vitamins while the child is still inside
the uterus. Folic acids are known to prevent birth defects and
aids in the proper creation of the child's DNA.
In order for a child to grow into a healthy body weight, the
thyroid must function properly. The key mineral that aids in
thyroid health and development is Zinc. Zinc deficiency is
commonly seen in third world countries where diets are usually
poor and the crops are grown in poor soil quality which is
usually short on Zinc. Because of these factors, the percentage
of retarded growth among children is unusually high. Depending
on age and weight, children should be consuming between 10 and
15 mg of Zinc every day.
For a child's bones to grow and develop into normal size and
hardness, the most important vitamins and minerals, calcium,
phosphorous, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and
magnesium, must all be present in sufficient quantity within the
body. These vitamins and minerals all have properties that cause
them to work as partners in regards to bone structure and
density. Taken individually, they will not be as effective as
they are when present as a group. Since the bones are
continually losing calcium, sustaining the required levels of
this group of vitamins and minerals is critical to proper growth.
Anyone with children can tell you that it is not always easy to
fit all these nutritional requirements into their daily diet.
Kids won't always eat the healthiest foods, and won't often eat
everything you put in front of them. For this reason, dietary
supplements may be an easier and more effective way to ensure
that your child will grow properly. However, different children
have different dietary needs, so always consult with your family
doctor before starting your child on a nutritional supplement
program.