Author – Phoebe Chan – BSc (Hons) Nutrition and Human Health
It is recommended that all children aged 6 months to 5 years are given a vitamin supplement containing vitamins A, C and D every day. Babies who consume more than 500 ml of infant formula daily should not be given additional vitamin supplements, as they are already receiving these nutrients. However, breastfed babies should be given vitamin D (1).
Do All Children Need a Multivitamin?
Although the NHS recommends supplements for all children, this is a general recommendation and may not be necessary in every case. Whether a child needs a multivitamin largely depends on their individual lifestyle and nutritional intake.
Ideally, children should obtain nutrients from a varied, balanced diet. However, this is not always achievable especially for busy families or when children are picky eaters (2).
A multivitamin may be beneficial if a child:
- Does not eat enough diverse foods to support growth and development.
- Is a picky eater, avoiding many nutrient-rich foods.
- Follows a restricted diet such as vegetarian or vegan, which can risk deficiencies in vitamin B12, calcium, zinc, iron, and iodine (2).
- Has chronic health conditions like digestive problems or asthma, which may increase nutrient needs (2).
How Do Multivitamins for Children Differ from Adults?
Multivitamins are tailored to different nutritional needs.
For children, dosage is particularly important consuming too much of vitamins A, C, or D can be harmful. That’s why children should always take supplements formulated specifically for their age group (2).
Children’s multivitamins are also offered in child-friendly forms like chewables, liquids , or gummies , making them easy to take (2).
When Is the Best Time to Take a Multivitamin?
Morning vs Night
Most healthcare providers recommend giving children a multivitamin in the morning with food. This allows the body to efficiently process and use nutrients. Vitamins B and C, often included in multivitamins, are best taken earlier in the day as they can boost energy. Vitamin B6 in particular may interfere with sleep if taken before bed (3).
Taking Vitamins at Night
Digestion slows overnight, reducing absorption. However, exceptions exist: vitamin E (sometimes recommended) may promote restful sleep, and magnesium may support better sleep quality if taken at night (3).
Benefits of a Multivitamin for Children
- Fills nutritional gaps in picky eaters or those with limited diets.
- Strengthens immunity with essential vitamins such as A, C, D, and E (4).
- Supports bone health with nutrients like calcium to promote strong growth (4).
- Boosts energy levels, unlike short-lived energy spikes from sugary snacks (4).
Key Factors in Selecting Children’s Multivitamins
- Ingredients & Dosage – Always check that the nutrients meet your child’s needs and follow recommended dosage guidelines.
- Formulation Variety – Choose a format (gummies, capsules, liquids, effervescents) that suits your child (5).
- Consistency – Multivitamins only work when taken regularly, so it’s important to choose a form your child accepts happily (5).
What to Avoid in Multivitamin Gummies
- High sugar content – which may contribute to tooth decay.
- Artificial colours & flavours – some children are sensitive, and artificial colouring has been linked with hyperactivity in children (7).
- Allergens – check labels for soy, gluten, or dairy if your child has sensitivities.
- Skipped nutrients – ensure key nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and E are included (6).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all children need a multivitamin?
Not always. Supplements may be helpful depending on your child’s diet and lifestyle (2).
When should children take them?
If growth is delayed, they suffer from allergies, or they follow restrictive diets such as veganism (2).
Which vitamins are important for children?
Vitamins A, B, C, D as well as calcium, iron, and zinc.
When is the best time to take a multivitamin?
Generally in the morning with food (2).
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/baby/weaning-and-feeding/vitamins-for-children
- https://www.naturesbest.co.uk/our-blog/multivitamins-for-kids-whats-the-difference/#:~:text=In%20an%20ideal%20world%2C%20children,look%20into%20multivitamins%20for%20kids
- https://wellements.com/blogs/the-well/when-is-the-best-time-of-day-to-give-kids-vitamins?srsltid=AfmBOoq3aKCu7R_BunC1bFRQvvCqkPHdhOrUxlPI8_u1jC8YK1molTpT
- https://www.enerc.com.au/can-multivitamins-for-kids-help-benefits-of-a-daily-vitamin-for-children
- https://www.bonchabio.com/blog/multivitamins
- https://www.naturesbest.co.uk/childrens-multivitamin-gummies-a-guide-to-easy-daily-nutrition
- https://www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/food-additives
