Vitamins and minerals are important for children's healthy growth and development. Children who eat a well-balanced diet usually don't need a vitamin or mineral supplement. However, some children are at risk of having deficiencies and may need a supplement. Follow the “rainbow” diet and make sure your children eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables to get the nutrients they need.
In fact, according to the USDA, children should consume one to two cups of fruit and one to three cups of vegetables a day. Then, if they feel the need, offer them a multivitamin as a bonus. Dawkins doesn't prefer gummies because they're not good for your teeth. If you give your children vitamins, Dawkins warns, never call them “candy.” Megavitamins (large doses of vitamins) are not a good idea for children.
Fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) can be toxic if overconsumed by children. Your children may be eating too much of something good. That's much better than serving them fast food or pre-cooked food, and hoping that taking a vitamin for children will eliminate any nutritional problems.
