Do kids absorb vitamins?

We have discussed whether or not it is necessary to give kids vitamins a couple times on this blog. Some say it's a waste of money. Others say it is a security blanket for picky eaters. I saw this question and answer on CNN. I thought, if you do want to give your kids vitamins, this is some good information about which ones to choose.

FROM CNN:
"I've heard a lot about vitamins and supplements passing through the body unabsorbed, especially when in pill form. I've also heard that this can be a more common problem with low-cost and generic versions, even though the ingredient list is identical. My solution lately has been to crush the pill to powder and down it with some milk. Does this solve the problem or is there something inherent in cheaper supplements that inhibits absorption?" Dr. Melina Jampolis said: This is an interesting question that brings up several important points. First of all, price or brand do not necessarily determine the quality of a vitamin supplement. An independent testing lab, consumerlabs.com, found that several higher priced vitamins were among the worst offenders in terms of contaminants or not having the vitamin levels stated on the label. In my opinion, the best solution would be to go with a brand that carries the seal of USP or NSF, two nonprofit organizations that certify that vitamins are contaminant free and made according to good manufacturing practices. If products don't carry the seal, this does not necessarily mean that they are inferior; they may simply be untested so if they are made by a reputable company, they are most likely safe and well made.

While crushing pills may ensure that they break down appropriately in the stomach, taking them with milk is not great idea, as milk may interfere with the absorption of some of the nutrients in a multivitamin such as iron. Taking them with juice is a better idea, as the acid and vitamin C in juice may help with the absorption. Taking a vitamin supplement with a meal is the best approach as many of the vitamins and minerals are better absorbed by the body in the presence of fat and protein.

-NewsAnchorMom Jen

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Do adults need vitamins?

Here's a great follow-up question that was posted after the vitamin story last week that said many pediatricians do not recommened vitamins for kids.

NewsAnchorMom.com reader Lisa asked:

"At what age, then, are vitamins recommended? Aren't we as adults supposed to be taking them... so when do doctors make the distinction that vitamins are important? I do give my kids a children's gummy vitamin each day. I don't think it's necessary, but I think it establishes good nutrition habits when it's made part of their daily routine."

Dr. Kelvin Wynn from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria responded:

"Vitamins are chemical compounds which are essential in small amounts for normal metabolism. The majority of vitamins are not made by our bodies so they need to be ingested in the diet to prevent certain disorders. It is important to distinguish vitamins from minerals (such as calcium and iron) which are also essential.

Therefore, if someone is not getting adequate nutrition then vitamin supplementation is necessary regardless if they are a child or adult. The best way to get the essential vitamins and minerals is with a balanced diet. A diet with five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day supplants supplemental multivitamin use in most people.

Individuals who have clinical reasons for vitamin deficiency, such as those who suffer from alcoholism, malabsorption, a history of gastric bypass surgery,or a history of metabolism disorders, should receive supplemental multivitamins. Physical signs and symptoms of vitamin deficiency depends upon the deficient vitamin. Remember, one can take too much of a particular vitamin which can produce signs and symptoms of toxicity."

I hope this helps! How many of you take vitamins as adults?

-NewsAnchorMom Jen