If you are a vegan parent, then you know that it can be tough to find good quality vitamins for your children. Many kids' vitamins are not vegan-friendly, and they often contain animal products like gelatin.
This can make it difficult for vegan parents to ensure that their children are getting all of the nutrients they need. In this article, we will discuss some of the best vegan vitamins made for kids on the market today. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right vitamin for your child.
What are Vegan Vitamins?
Vegan vitamins are supplements that do not contain any animal products. This means that they are free of gelatin, honey, and other ingredients that are derived from animals. Vegan vitamins are typically made from plant-based ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Some vegan vitamins also contain synthetic ingredients, such as vitamin D3. However, these synthetic ingredients are often plant-based as well.
Why Should I Give My Child Vegan Vitamins?
There are many reasons why you might want to give your child vegan vitamins. For one, veganism can be a healthy lifestyle choice. Vegans typically have lower rates of heart disease, obesity, and certain types of cancer. Some studies have suggested that those who follow plant-based or vegan diets may live longer than those who don't.
Additionally, veganism is more environmentally sustainable than consuming animal products. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and habitat destruction.
By following a vegan diet, you and your child can help reduce the environmental consequences of eating meat. "If your child does follows a vegan diet, there are certain vitamins that they won't be able to get from food. This is where vegan vitamins can help fill in the gaps to support their growth and development," says Victoria Whittington, registered dietitian of Camelback Nutrition & Wellness.
Supplements and Vitamins to Support a Vegan Diet
As a vegan, you know that getting all the nutrients you need can be tough. This is especially true if you have a picky eater at home. Luckily, there are plenty of vitamins and supplements available that can help fill in the gaps in your child's diet.
Here are some of the vitamins for vegan kids that you should consider:
1) Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is needed for strong bones and teeth. It also helps the body absorb calcium. Most kids' vitamins contain vitamin D3 that is derived from animals. However, there are some vegan-friendly options that contain vitamin D2, which is derived from plants.
The best way to get vitamin D is by spending time in the sun. However, this isn't always possible, especially during the winter months. If your child isn't getting enough sun exposure, then a vitamin D supplement can be a good option.
2) Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain and eye health. They can also help to reduce inflammation. Most kids' vitamins contain omega-3s from fish oil. However, there are some plant-based options that contain omega-3s from flaxseed oil or algae.
Many children don't get enough omega-3s in their diet. This is because most kids' preferred foods are low in healthy fats, and they tend to be high in unhealthy ones. By giving your child a vegan vitamin that contains omega-3 fatty acids, you can help them get the nutrients they need to support their brain development.
3) Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is on only found in animal-based foods. However, there are some vegan-friendly vitamin options that contain B12 from algae or yeast.
Most meat-eating kids don't get enough vitamin B12 in their diet, but all vegan children are at an increased risk for vitamin B12. This is because it's found only in animal products. A B12 supplement can help to ensure that your child is getting all the nutrients they need, without having to rely on animal products.
Vitamin B12 is one of the most important vegan vitamins for kids. If your child is not getting enough B12, it could negatively impact their growth and development.
4) Iodine:
Another important mineral for children's health is iodine. This mineral is often missing from children's vitamins The thyroid gland needs iodine to produce hormones that regulate metabolism and growth.
Iodine is found primarily in fish, dairy products, and eggs. However, there are some plant-based sources of iodine, including seaweed and some nuts. Iodized salt can also contribute to iodine intake. If your child is vegan, then a vitamin supplement that contains iodine can help to ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient.
5) Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is responsible for your child's health and well-being. It plays a role in the formation of tissue, cells, DNA, and proteins that make up the immune system. It also helps with wound healing, and it is essential for proper growth and development during childhood.
There are many plant-based sources of zinc that are great for kids, including fortified cereals and grains, as well as nuts and legumes.
If your child is not getting enough zinc in their diet, they may experience symptoms such as hair loss and skin problems. Zinc deficiency also causes slow growth in infants and children and delayed sexual development in adolescents. One way to ensure that your child is getting enough zinc is by taking vegan kids' multivitamin gummies.
6) Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for blood clotting, as well as bone and heart health. There are many plant-based sources of vitamin K, including dark leafy greens, broccoli, and kale. If your child is not getting enough vitamin K in their diet, they may experience symptoms such as bruising or bleeding easily, as well as poor bone health.
Health benefits of a vegan diet
Studies show many health benefits in adults who follow a vegan diet. There is not enough evidence to support that early introduction of the vegan diet during childhood leads to long-lasting benefit. Some of the key benefits include:
1) Better cardiovascular health
One of the biggest health benefits of a vegan diet is that it can help to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. A vegan diet is low in saturated and trans fats, which are associated with increased risk for heart disease. In addition, a vegan diet is high in fiber, which can help to manage cholesterol levels and keep your child's heart-healthy.
2) A lower risk of cancer
Plant-based foods are high in antioxidants, which can help to protect your child's cells from damage. This can reduce their risk of developing cancer. In addition, a vegan diet is also low in saturated fats, which may contribute to increased cancer risk over time.
3) Improved digestion
A vegan diet is high in fiber, which is essential for good digestive health. Fiber helps to keep the digestive system moving, which can prevent constipation and other gastrointestinal problems in children.
4) Weight management
Research has shown that children who follow a vegan diet tend to be at an appropriate weight for their age and growth. A plant-based diet is often lower in calories, which can help to help with weight management in children.
5) A stronger immune system
Vegan diets are high in vitamins and minerals, which can help support the immune system. A strong immune system can help to keep your child healthy and reduce their risk of developing common childhood illnesses, such as the flu or colds.
Best Product for Vegan Kids:
If not supplemented properly, vegan diets in children can lead to severe and sometimes irreversible developmental disorders. "Regardless of the reason for choosing a vegan diet, a well-planned, diversified diet with additional supplementation of vitamin B12, vitamin D, iodine, and other micronutrients is vital to ensure a healthy and nutritious intake that will support you child's growth and development," says Whittington.
If you are looking for the best vegan kid's vitamins, we highly recommend Kids Daily Essential by First Day. This vitamin is specifically designed for vegan kids and provides all of the essential nutrients that they need for growth and development.
It is made from a blend of organic fruits and veggies and is free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, this vitamin is also non-GMO and gluten-free.
Order Today to Get the Best Kids Vitamins!
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31387433/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4073139/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33118073/
- https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-d/
- https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/types-of-fat/omega-3-fats/
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-Consumer/
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-Consumer/
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminK-Consumer/
