Nowhere are the adverse effects of the standard American diet more visible than in the current nutritional status of American children. Poor nutritional intake beginning in the womb followed by a diet of highly processed, refined, high fat, high sugar and low fiber foods has led to a generation of children who are often deficient in essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. As children grow and develop, early nutritional deficiencies will create long-term health issues.
Fatty Acids
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the most abundant essential fatty acid and is found in the brain and retina of the eye. DHA is essential for normal, healthy brain structure, function and healthy vision.
Studies in babies and children demonstrate that higher DHA levels help support learning and cognitive function. Similar results in adolescents show that DHA also supports higher learning skills. DHA supplementation in the range of 400-600 mg daily should be recommended for most children.
Gastro intestinal and immune health also suffer from the typical diet. When combined with antibiotic usage, it can create a compromised situation for the healthy bacteria normally found in the gut. These healthy bacteria are necessary for suppressing growth of harmful bacteria, absorption of nutrients, supporting digestion and maintaining immune function.
We recommend a daily probiotic supplement with a diverse combination of bacterial strains containing L. acidophilus/B.bifidum. These are the two most common strains of beneficial bacteria that reside in our intestinal tract. They play many important functions in our bodies including improved digestion and an enhanced immune system.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
A children's chewable multi-vitamin/ mineral can meet the required nutritional needs and should include iron, vitamin C and vitamin D.
A sound protein-based start to the day has been shown to enhance learning and alertness of school-aged children. A smoothie with protein powder, berries and greens is a much better start than a typical carbohydrate rich breakfast.
At Keystone Pharmacy, we offer high-quality, easy-to-use solutions to help support your child's nutritional needs. Our top products for children include:
- Vitamin C 500 mg chewable tablets
- lronUp liquid
- Children's probiotics
- Vitamin D drop
- Chewable multi-vitamins
- Perfect Protein powder
- Springboard Essentials pack
