Vitamins for children when is it necessary?
TL;DR
Most children get the vitamins they need through a varied diet. The exception is vitamin D, which is recommended as a supplement for young children in Denmark. If in doubt about other supplements, you should always ask a doctor or health visitor.
Shelves are full of vitamins for children in fun shapes and colors — but do children really need them? For most, the answer is no, with one important exception.
Here you get an overview of when supplements make sense, what applies to vitamin D and iron, and when you should ask a professional.
A varied diet usually covers the need
If the child eats a varied diet — vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy products — they usually get the vitamins and minerals they need without supplements.
Vitamin pills are rarely necessary for healthy children with a normal, varied diet. Food is the best source because vitamins and minerals come along with fiber, protein, and other nutrients.
The exception: Vitamin D
In Denmark, vitamin D is recommended as a supplement for young children because the sun in winter is not strong enough for the body to produce enough on its own. Follow the current recommendations for dosage and age at the Danish Health Authority, and ask the health visitor if you are unsure.
Iron — watch closely, but supplement only on advice
Iron is important for young children, and deficiency is not uncommon. But iron supplements should only be given after consulting a doctor, as too much iron can also be harmful. Iron-rich foods like meat, legumes, and whole grains are the safe first choice.
When should you ask the doctor?
Consider seeking advice if the child eats very one-sidedly, is vegetarian/vegan, seems tired and pale, or is not thriving. Then the doctor can assess whether supplements are needed. General guidance can be found at sundhed.dk.
Build good eating habits instead
The best "vitamin pill" is a varied diet the child enjoys. Let the child help prepare the food — they tend to eat more varied meals when they have been involved. A kitchen set makes it easy to involve the child.
Most healthy children with a varied diet do not need vitamin supplements — except for vitamin D, which is recommended for toddlers in Denmark. For iron and other supplements: always ask the doctor first, and otherwise rely on good, varied food.
Find more advice about children and food on our blog.
Frequently asked questions
Do children need vitamin pills?
Most healthy children with a varied diet do not need supplements. The exception is vitamin D, which is recommended for toddlers in Denmark.
Should children take vitamin D?
Yes, in Denmark, vitamin D is recommended as a supplement for toddlers because the winter sun is not strong enough. Follow the current advice from the Danish Health Authority on dosage and age.
Should children take iron supplements?
Iron supplements should only be given after consulting a doctor, as too much iron can be harmful. Iron-rich foods like meat, legumes, and whole grains are the first choice.
When should I ask the doctor about vitamins?
If the child eats very one-sidedly, is vegetarian/vegan, seems tired and pale, or is not thriving, the doctor can assess the need for supplements.
Is food better than vitamin pills?
For healthy children, yes. Vitamins in food come with fiber, protein, and other nutrients, and a varied diet usually covers the needs.