Contents
- 8 Best Kids Vitamin Supplements
- First Day Kids’ Daily Enrichment Multivitamins
- Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies
- OLLY Kids Multi Worms
- Dr. Berg Kids Chewable Multivitamin
- Mary Ruth’s Organic Toddler Multivitamin Liquid Drops
- Orthomol Junior C Plus
- Garden of Life Organics Kids Multi Fruit Gummies
- SmartyPants Kids Multi & Fiber
- How Did We Evaluate the Right Vitamins for Your Child?
- Side Effects Of Kids Vitamin Supplements
- Natural Alternatives To Kids Vitamin Supplements
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Picky eating, dietary restrictions, or health conditions may cause nutritional gaps in your child’s diet. In these cases, vitamin supplementation may provide additional support for immune function, bone strength, brain development, and energy levels.
Kids vitamin supplements often come in gummies, chewable, or flavored liquids. They typically provide a mix of essential nutrients, including vitamins D, C, A, B, K, zinc, iodine, iron, etc. These nutrients might help contribute to a child’s daily nutrition needs.
In this article, “Best Kids Vitamin Supplements,” we explore 8 vitamin supplements to support normal growth and health in children.
8 Best Kids Vitamin Supplements
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First Day Kids’ Daily Enrichment Multivitamins
First Day Kids’ Daily Enrichment Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals for children who are aged 4 and above. It contains 12 organic fruits and vegetables, including apple, kale, spinach, and blueberry.
As per its official site, each serving (2 gummies) provides 20mg of vitamin C, 0.3mg of vitamin B1, 130mcg of vitamin A, and 0.38mg of vitamin B6, among other nutrients. It also contains 80mcg of methyltetrahydrofolate, a highly absorbable form of folate, ensuring efficient nutrient utilization for children.
First Day claims to prioritize safety by excluding common allergens, including dairy, soy, gluten, and nuts, potentially making these gummies a suitable option for children with dietary sensitivities. With up to 80 percent less sugar than other children’s vitamins, they are sweetened with organic tapioca syrup and organic cane sugar.
Pros
- Utilizes bioavailable vitamin forms like methyltetrahydrofolate for better absorption.
- Includes highly absorbable folate, potentially supporting brain function and cell growth.
- It is a clean-label project verified for purity and safety.
- Claims to fill nutritional gaps in children’s diets.
Cons
- Lacks essential nutrients like iron, iodine, selenium, and omega-3s.
- Contains sunflower oil, which could trigger allergies in some children.
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Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies
Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies claim to support your child’s immune health with organic, real-food ingredients. They are sweetened using organic apple juice and peach puree, thereby avoiding the use of added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
According to its official site, each gummy delivers a highly concentrated organic elderberry extract (35:1). Elderberries contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that might help decrease the severity and duration of flu and colds.
Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies also provide organic vitamin C from acerola cherries and zinc chelate, a plant-based form of zinc that enhances immune function.
For children who are aged 2 and up, the recommended dosage is one gummy daily and two gummies for ages 4 and older. Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies have a vegan, non-GMO formula, which also undergoes rigorous third-party testing for purity and potency.
Pros
- Organic vitamin C and zinc chelate may support faster recovery from infections.
- Provides kid-friendly dosing for ages 2 years and above.
- Offers a vegan-friendly and non-GMO formula.
- Claims to help support wound healing and provide metabolism support.
Cons
- Improperly processed elderberry may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Natural sugars in the gummies might contribute to cavities.
- May not be suitable for children with autoimmune conditions.
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OLLY Kids Multi Worms
OLLY Kids Multi Worms may help support a child’s daily nutrition needs. These chewable, worm-shaped gummies come in a tangy, sour, fruity punch flavor. It has a gluten-free formula, which is free from artificial flavors or colors.
Vitamin A in OLLY Kids Multi Worms may support healthy vision, while Vitamin C could aid in tissue repair. Vitamin D might strengthen bones, and Vitamin E might provide antioxidant protection. They also feature B vitamins, including B6, B12, folate, and pantothenic acid. These B vitamins may promote brain function and energy metabolism.
While OLLY Kids Multi Worms gummies provide a variety of nutrients, they do not contain fiber, probiotics, or omega-3s, so you may need to supplement those through diet.
Pros
- Contains nutrients A, C, D, E, B, and iodine to support health.
- Independently tested and NSF-certified to meet safety and quality standards.
- It is made without artificial dyes or flavors.
- Comes in a gummy worm shape, which may appeal to kids.
Cons
- Lacks essential nutrients like fiber, iron, and probiotics.
- Gummies may clump together in warmer conditions.
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Dr. Berg Kids Chewable Multivitamin
Dr. Berg’s Kids Chewable Multivitamin is intended for children aged four years and above. It provides 60 mixed berry-flavored wafers in one bottle.
As per its official site, Dr. Berg’s Kids Chewable Multivitamin features a proprietary whole-food blend, which contains spinach, broccoli, carrots, beets, apples, cranberries, and blueberries to enhance its nutritional value. It also includes a trace mineral complex to support immunity and health.
Dr. Berg’s Kids Chewable Multivitamin includes vitamin D3 to support bone health, vitamin A to support skin and vision, and B vitamins to improve energy and cognitive function. It is also made in a cGMP-certified facility in the US, indicating it meets high-quality standards.
Pros
- Sweetened using stevia and monk fruit, which may help avoid blood sugar spikes.
- Contains B6, B7, and B12 vitamins, which may support energy and cognitive function.
- Subscriptions may save an extra 10% on orders.
Cons
- Contains a proprietary whole-food blend, which may indicate a lack of transparency.
- Is only available in a mixed berry flavor, which may limit flavor options.
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Mary Ruth’s Organic Toddler Multivitamin Liquid Drops
MaryRuth’s Organic Toddler Multivitamin Liquid Drops provide essential vitamins and minerals that may support the healthy growth of children aged 1 to 3 years. The liquid supplement comes in a 60ml (2fl oz) bottle with an orange vanilla flavor.
According to the official site, each 2ml serving contains 100mcg of vitamin A, 3mg of vitamin E, 10mg of choline, and 0.3mg of thiamin, among other ingredients. It also features vitamin D3 to support bone development and zinc to support immunity and cognitive growth.
MaryRuth’s Organic Toddler Multivitamin Liquid Drops claims to be USDA-certified organic and made in a GMP-certified facility. These certifications might help indicate its strong safety and effectiveness profile.
Pros
- The liquid drops can be given directly or mixed into beverages.
- Contains vitamin D3, which may aid in calcium absorption and bone growth.
- May be suitable for children with dietary restrictions, as it is free of sugar, dairy, and soy.
- Contains zinc, which may support height and growth outcomes.
- Provides a 30-day refund guarantee on orders.
Cons
- Some kids might experience stomach upset or changes in bowel movements.
- There may be issues with the dropper, such as leakage or missing measurement markings.
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Orthomol Junior C Plus
Orthomol Junior C Plus provides 27 essential nutrients to support immune function, cognitive development, and bone health. It includes nutrients like vitamin D to support immunity, calcium to maintain strong bones, and iodine for healthy growth and development. It also features beneficial phytonutrients, including citrus bioflavonoids, lutein, and lycopene. They may function as antioxidants to help protect body from excessive oxidative stress and support eye and heart health.
Orthomol Junior C Plus is manufactured in Germany under strict quality standards and provides a tooth-friendly and lactose-free formula. It comes with a recommended dosage of 3 chewable tablets to be given to children with or after a meal.
However, Orthomol Junior C Plus is not directly available for purchase on its official site. Instead, you may purchase it from online e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
Pros
- Packaged in 30 individual servings for consistent daily use.
- Chewable tablet form could make it easier to consume for children.
- Does not contain potential allergens like fructose and lactose.
Cons
- Some children may have allergies or sensitivities, as it contains coconut.
- May trigger side effects like stomach ache, constipation, or dizziness.
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Garden of Life Organics Kids Multi Fruit Gummies
Kids Multi Fruit Gummies by Garden of Life Organics are made from 9 organic whole-fruit ingredients, including apples, peaches, oranges, and more. The gummies also feature an organic real-food vitamin blend comprising moringa, beetroot, spinach, ginger, cauliflower, etc.
As per its official site, each 4-gummy serving provides 7.5mg of vitamin E, 90mg of vitamin C, 35 mcg of chromium, and 200 mcg of folate, among other nutrients. It also includes 800 IU of vitamin D3 and essential minerals like manganese, selenium, and zinc.
Garden of Life Organics claims that its Kids Multi Fruit Gummies comprise pectin extracted from non-GMO apples and organic orange peel, avoiding the use of animal-derived pectin. They also claim that the gummies are made without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and are non-GMO Project-verified.
Pros
- It is free from synthetic ingredients, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
- Offers a nut-free formula, making it safe for children with nut allergies.
- Does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, such as pig gelatin.
Cons
- Requires consuming four gummies daily, which may be inconvenient.
- The organic blends may contribute to an unpleasant taste and smell.
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SmartyPants Kids Multi & Fiber
SmartyPants claims that its Kids Multi & Fiber gummies may support the daily nutrition needs of kids, alongside digestion, immunity, and bone health. It contains over 15 nutrients, including omega-3s, prebiotic fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamin D3 and vitamin B12.
According to its official site, each serving (4 gummies) features 4g of dietary fiber, 340mg of fish oil, 2mg of Inositol, 90mcg of iodine, and 180mcg of vitamin A. Fish oil in SmartyPants Kids Multi & Fiber contains omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which may support brain and heart function.
SmartyPants Kids Multi & Fiber gummies come in orange, strawberry, banana, and lemon flavors. It is also free from wheat, eggs, sesame, shellfish, tree nuts, and other allergens.
However, it contains fish-derived ingredients, which may trigger side effects like stomach cramps, dizziness, hives, runny nose, headaches, or potential allergic reactions.
Pros
- Includes prebiotic fiber to support digestion and gut health.
- Provides 340mg of fish oil per serving (4 gummies).
- Includes methylcobalamin (vitamin B12) to support energy levels.
- Third-party labs like NSF and Igen have tested its formula for purity.
Cons
- Contains fish oil, which can be a concern for children with fish allergies.
- May provide a chemical aftertaste, possibly due to its choline or fiber content.
How Did We Evaluate the Right Vitamins for Your Child?
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Price and Value
When assessing price and value, the evaluation factors included cost per serving, ingredient quality, and affordability. OLLY Kids Multi Worms appears to be the most budget-friendly option at $13.99 for 35 servings, offering a gummy-based format but a basic nutrient profile.
SmartyPants Kids Multi & Fiber Gummies costs $19.99 for 120 gummies (30-day supply), adding digestive support while maintaining affordability. Dr. Berg Kids Chewable Multivitamin costs $23.99 for 60 wafers and delivers a whole-food-based formula.
Llama Naturals Kids Elderberry Immunity Gummies are priced at $24.99 (for 60 gummies) and provide immune support. Mary Ruth’s Organic Toddler Multivitamin Liquid Drops costs $24.95 for a 60ml (30-day supply), ensuring easy absorption for toddlers. However, its cost per serving is slightly higher than other options.
Garden of Life Organics Kids Multi Fruit Gummies are available for $30.39 for a 30-day supply (120 gummies). It offers organic, whole-food-based nutrition for children but comes at a premium price.
First Day Kids’ Daily Enrichment Multivitamins, priced at $39 for a 30-day supply, has a higher cost per serving, making it more suitable for parents prioritizing premium ingredients. Orthomol Junior C Plus is the most expensive at $69.99 for 30 daily packs. It may suit the needs of parents seeking premium ingredients over cost efficiency.
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Brand Reputation
For evaluating the reputation of the different brands, we examined factors like brand history, trustpilot ratings, and transparency. First Day seems as one of the most reputable brands, with a strong 4.6 Trustpilot rating based on 328+ reviews, reflecting high customer satisfaction and trust.
OLLY follows closely behind with a strong market presence and backing from Unilever despite not having a claimed Trustpilot profile. Llama Naturals, though unrated on Trustpilot, has earned industry recognition, which may reinforce its credibility.
Brands like Dr. Berg and Mary Ruth’s hold moderate reputations. Dr. Berg has a 3.2 Trustpilot rating from 90+ reviews but maintains an A+ rating with the BBB, indicating responsiveness to consumer concerns. Mary Ruth’s, despite its reputation for quality organic supplements, has only 4 Trustpilot reviews with a 3.4 rating, providing limited consumer insights.
Orthomol, Garden of Life Organics, and SmartyPants have strong brand recognition but lack Trustpilot ratings. While these brands provide premium-quality formulations and third-party certifications, the absence of customer review data leaves gaps in evaluating their consumer trust.
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Returns and Refund Policies
When choosing the right vitamins for a child, looking for a flexible and transparent return policy may enhance customer confidence. Among the brands evaluated, Garden of Life offers the most accommodating policy with a 60-day return window, though it requires an RMA number and does not cover return shipping costs.
First Day follows closely with a 45-day satisfaction guarantee, allowing refunds up to $100 for first-time orders, but it limits refunds to initial purchases only. Dr. Berg provides a 30-day refund policy without the need to return the product, though shipping costs remain non-refundable.
Llama Naturals offers a 30-day satisfaction policy, extending up to three bottles. However, it restricts reordering after a refund. OLLY provides a standard 30-day return policy, though details on eligibility for opened products are unclear.
Mary Ruth’s allows returns within 30 days of purchase, but only for exchanges or store credit rather than full refunds, which may not suit all customers. SmartyPants and Orthomol do not provide any details about their refund policies, making their return options uncertain.
Side Effects Of Kids Vitamin Supplements
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Loose Stools
Some kids may experience loose stools or diarrhea as a side effect of certain vitamin supplements. High doses of vitamin C or magnesium, commonly found in multivitamins or specific supplements, can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset. If a child experiences loose stools after taking a vitamin supplement, it’s important to monitor their symptoms. Reducing the dosage or choosing a supplement with lower levels of these ingredients might help alleviate this side effect. Always consult a healthcare provider if the issue persists.
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Iron Toxicity
Iron toxicity is a serious concern when it comes to kids’ vitamin supplements, particularly those containing iron. While iron is essential for growth and development, excessive amounts can be harmful. Overconsumption of iron through kids’ vitamin supplements may lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, excessive abdominal pain, and, in severe conditions, damage to internal organs.
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Belching Or Indigestion
Some kids may experience belching or indigestion after taking vitamin supplements, especially those containing omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil. These supplements can sometimes cause mild digestive discomfort, including bloating or an unpleasant aftertaste. Giving your kid vitamin supplements with food or choosing a different formulation, such as a chewable or gummy alternative, may help reduce these effects.
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Bad Breath
Certain kids’ vitamin supplements, particularly those containing fish oil, garlic extracts, or strong-tasting minerals, can contribute to bad breath. This can occur due to the natural breakdown of these ingredients during digestion or their lingering aftertaste. Encouraging children to drink water, brush their teeth, or take supplements with meals may help minimize this effect. If bad breath persists despite these adjustments, switching to an alternative formulation, such as a coated or odor-free supplement, may be beneficial.
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Tooth Stain
Some kids’ vitamin supplements, especially liquid formulas containing iron, can cause tooth staining over time. This occurs when iron particles adhere to the enamel, leading to discoloration. Using a straw when drinking liquid supplements, rinsing the mouth with water afterward, or brushing your kid’s teeth soon after consumption can help prevent staining.
Natural Alternatives To Kids Vitamin Supplements
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Carrots
Carrots may work as a natural alternative to kids’ vitamin supplements by offering beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A that may support and maintain healthy vision by synthesizing rhodopsin pigment in the eyes that detects light. Carrots provide antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin in a child’s diet, which may help support brain health. The fiber content of carrots might also promote a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and reducing the risk of constipation.
Carrots also offer vitamin K, which may support blood clotting and bone development. They are also naturally sweet and versatile, making them a nutritious substitute for synthetic vitamin supplements.
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Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes may support a child’s health by offering multiple nutrients that come from synthetic supplements. Packed with vitamin A, sweet potatoes provide a natural way to support immune function and healthy cell growth in children.
Sweet potatoes contain dietary fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and steady energy throughout the day. Their low glycemic index aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels, suppressing the common energy crashes that may come from sugary or processed vitamin supplements.
With their potassium and magnesium content, sweet potatoes naturally support nerve function, muscle health, and heart health in kids. Sweet potatoes are also easy to prepare and can be included in your child’s meals through baking, roasting, or mashing.
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Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes, offer a tasty way to meet your child’s vitamin needs without relying on vitamin supplements. Packed with vitamin C, these fruits support essential functions like tissue repair and natural growth in children.
Beyond promoting growth, citrus fruits may boost the immune system naturally. Their vitamin C content may enhance white blood cell production. It can be especially beneficial for children, as better immunity could help reduce the severity and duration of colds.
Citrus fruits also improve iron absorption from plant-based foods, which is important for minimizing the risk of iron deficiency anemia in children.
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Strawberries
Strawberries provide essential vitamins that support a child’s development, making them a suitable addition to a well-rounded diet alongside kids’ vitamin supplements. They contain vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that could strengthen immunity.
Besides vitamin C, strawberries also provide folate, which could help support DNA synthesis and cell division. These processes are vital for children’s growth. Folate may also support brain function and minimize the risk of developmental abnormalities in children.
Strawberries have a low-calorie and high water content, which may serve as a suitable snack to keep kids hydrated while delivering key nutrients that complement a child’s daily vitamin intake.
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Sunlight
Sunlight exposure is a simple, natural way for kids to get the essential vitamin D they need for healthy growth. Unlike vitamin D supplements, sunlight triggers the production of vitamin D3 in the skin when it’s exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
This vitamin D is then converted into its active form by the body, which could support bone growth in kids by improving calcium absorption in their intestines. Just 10–30 minutes of sunlight exposure a day may help children maintain healthy vitamin D levels.
Regular sunlight exposure may also support better focus and lower the risk of a child developing mood-related concerns like depression in the long term.
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Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines offer a nutrient-packed, natural alternative to kids’ vitamin supplements. These fish are high in vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and supports the development of strong bones and teeth in children.
Beyond vitamin D, fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Studies have found that omega-3s contribute to improved learning and memory, supporting a child’s mental and academic development.
Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory effects that could support heart health by decreasing excess inflammation and lowering blood pressure. These benefits might help lower the risk of a child developing cardiovascular diseases in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is It Safe For Kids To Take Vitamin Supplements Daily?
Yes, kids can take vitamin supplements daily if needed, but excessive intake may cause nutrient toxicity. Consulting a pediatrician ensures appropriate dosage, preventing potential side effects from fat-soluble vitamins and minerals. - What To Look For When Buying Vitamin Supplements For Kids?
When buying kids’ vitamin supplements, choose bioavailable forms, avoid artificial additives, ensure third-party testing, and select age-appropriate formulations like chewables or liquids for easy consumption and better nutrient absorption. - What Is The Best Time To Give Vitamin Supplements To Kids?
Give fat-soluble vitamins with meals, water-soluble vitamins in the morning on an empty stomach, and iron with vitamin C but away from dairy to enhance absorption and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Kids who consume a varied diet with nutrients like vitamin A, C, E, B vitamins, zinc, and calcium may not require vitamin supplementation. However, some kids may face challenges absorbing specific nutrients or have dietary restrictions, in which cases kids vitamins could be helpful.
Selecting the best kids’ vitamins requires careful consideration of a child’s age, eating habits, dietary sensitivities, and health needs. Checking the dosage of vitamins against recommended daily allowances (RDAs), choosing an easy-to-consume vitamin form, and looking for third-party testing status is also helpful.
It is important to remember that vitamin supplements cannot replace the importance of consuming the whole foods. A well-rounded diet should include calcium from sources like dairy and leafy greens, iron from lean meats, lentils, and fortified cereals. Other nutrients like omega-3s may come from fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
Besides using the vitamins, the children should be encouraged to follow some healthy lifestyle tips. It may include motivating the child to take part in regular physical activity, such as outdoor play, swimming, or structured sports.
Maintaining consistency in the sleep routine of children, reducing their screen time, and limiting the intake of processed foods may help support hormone balance and healthy growth in children.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
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