5 natural supplements for children's health
The beginning of the school year is here and with it begins a stage full of emotions and new challenges for the little ones, both physically and mentally. In addition, temperatures begin to fall with the fall, which increases the chances of colds and constipation.
Although food is the key to obtaining those nutrients that children so much need, there are a number of natural products that can serve as an extra help in specific situations, either to provide a specific nutrient, help with defenses, or stimulate the appetite, to give some examples.
5 essential nutrients for children's health
These are the 5 natural supplements for children's health more important:
1. Royal Jelly
Royal Jelly is a precious substance intended to feed the queen bee, which is why it is also known as "the gold of the hive". And it is not for less, since it contains an endless list of nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and the 20 essential amino acids. Its health benefits are numerous, among which we can highlight its contribution of energy and vitality, its antiviral and antimicrobial action that will help boost the immune system and restore appetite. Therefore, it can be a very complete option for those children who do not seem to reach everything, who show reluctance to eat or suffer from asthenia.
2. Vitamin C
This vitamin, present in fruits and vegetables, fulfills several functions; contributes to the maintenance of bones, cartilages and joints through the production of collagen, makes the immune system work normally and, thanks to his antioxidant action, protects the body from oxidative damage. The latter is interesting for children who suffer for example from school stress or who practice sports assiduously. Vitamin C is present in many foods, but even so, there are children who feel an aversion to fruit and vegetables, which makes their contribution through feeding difficult. This can impact the defenses, so they may benefit from an extra supply of vitamin C.
3. Echinacea
Continuing with natural products for the immune system, echinacea, a medicinal plant that helps the defenses of adults and also of children, could not be absent. The indications accepted by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) include the prevention and treatment of the common cold, with positive effects on the incidence and duration of it. Therefore, this medicinal plant is a basic that can not be missing in your natural pantry, since it is a good ally to protect the little ones from the cold, especially during the autumn and winter. As with all products and natural supplements, attention must be paid to the doses, since these will not be the same as for adults, but fortunately there are products with echinacea specific for children.
4. Omega 3
Omega 3 are essential fatty acids, that is, that our body does not produce by itself and that they have to be contributed by the diet. We can find them in blue fish, in krill, as well as in nuts and other vegetable-type sources. It has been demonstrated that a correct contribution of Omega 3, in particular of the EPA and DHA types, is fundamental for cognitive development, brain function and visual development, among others.
There are also promising studies about the benefits of Omega 3 for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD. The problem is that the changes in the modern diet, as well as the rejection of some children by fish means that the recommended amounts are not ingested. The good news is that there are many nice tasting supplements that can make the intake of the precious Omega 3 more bearable by the little ones so they can benefit from its properties.
5. Vitamin D
This vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium, which is why it plays a fundamental role in the development of bones and teeth. However, many children have a deficit of this vitamin, which is so important for growth, especially during autumn and winter. This is because the first source of obtaining vitamin D is sun exposure, which explains that during the colder months and with less light, this vitamin is not synthesized enough, to be less exposed and make a life of inside. That is why it is recommended to be exposed to the sun in safe conditions throughout the year, even if it is 10 minutes a day. Also, to supply the deficiency of this vitamin and if necessary, there are multivitamin supplements for example with calcium and other minerals, to reach the recommended levels.
Healthy eating, sports and a healthy lifestyle are the most important thing for children to grow up and develop happily and normally.If our children are going to use additional help through natural products or supplements, we must ensure that they are purchased from quality suppliers, that specific products are being used for children (the doses will be different from those of adults) and that The recommended dose in the package is respected. You also have to make sure that the product is not left within the reach of children. Today there are many formats such as jellybeans and syrups, which makes everything easier. And remember to check with your specialist for more information.
Alicia Navas Founder of El Búho Verde, a portal specializing in natural products
