Nutrients and Supplements for Children Up To Teens

The maintenance of good health is not merely the absence of poor health. It is during the formative years of childhood growth and development that independent attitudes and behaviour patterns are established, both physically and emotionally. This is a time when positive nutritional foundations need to be taught and encouraged for future years; a time of growing dietary independence and a time of special nutritional needs. The nutritional guidelines presented to children during this time of life profoundly influence their health profile and food choices for years to come.

During these years, the importance of balanced nutrition is obvious. It is also a time of life when peer pressure can influence children in their choices of fast food, confectionery and other less desirable food groups. Parents and guardians need to be aware of those factors that directly contribute to even mild obesity.

Surveys have shown that over 80% of people between the ages of 12 and 18 are affected in some way by acne. Sound nutritional foundations laid down in earlier life help to reduce the potential for this and similar skin complaints by reducing those undesirable foods that contribute to poor skin condition. We need to remember that the skin is the largest organ of the body, and it is also involved with the body's water balance. confectionery, bakery products and other prepared foods often contain refined and artificial sugars and sweetening agents, and an excess of these is considered damaging to skin.

Much has been written regarding the adverse health factors associated with fast foods. While they can be enjoyable, they do not usually enhance optimum health. It is good to consider fast foods as one would a bank account, in that it is fine to indulge, so long as our immune system is sufficiently in credit. Some of the fats and other additives used in fast foods can contribute to skin eruptions.

High consumption of milk beverages is associated with poor skin condition and even forms of dermatitis including eczema.

Most commercial hair shampoos and other hair preparations contain chemicals that are not only associated with poor hair growth, but that can also contribute to skin allergies, and are known to have detrimental effects on the eyes. Ninety per cent of commercial shampoos contain undesirable chemicals, such as sodium lauryl sulphate and propylene glycol, which are associated with skin allergies and dermatitis, and dry skin has also been related to some of the detergent additives.

Many toothpastes and mouthwashes also contain chemicals that can contribute to poor skin and also allergies.

Supplements

The following supplements that are known to be helpful are divided into three groups.

Section 1 Supplements are considered 'first choice'.

Section 2 Supplements are both complementary and synergistic with the 'first choice' supplements.

Section 3 Supplements are considered beneficial for preliminary digestive system cleansing. While optional, they can offer an additional positive process to improving health and wellbeing.

Table of Beneficial Nutritional Supplements

This information is offered as an introduction to supplements, herbs, foods and substances known to help with children's health between the ages of 3 and the teens. This information is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and it is suggested that sound advice is taken by an appropriately qualified practitioner. The supplements highlighted are generally considered to be 'first choice', while the additional selected supplements are complementary.

Supplement Suggestions for Children up to Teens

First Choice Supplements

Nutrient	Formula	Daily Intake	Initial Period	Intake	Ongoing
Vitamins	MultiVitamin-Mineral	1 daily	1 daily	1 daily	1 daily
Minerals	Magnesium	1/2 tablet daily	1/2 tablet daily	1/2 tablet daily	1/2 tablet daily
Beneficial Fats	Essential Fatty Acid Complex	1/2 tablet daily or 1 every 2 days	1/2 tablet daily	1/2 tablet daily	1/2 tablet daily

 

Complementary Supplements

N/A

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. None of this information regarding food-matrix nutrients or our products is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.