Correction of polyhypovitaminosis in children

Abstract

Adequate, balanced nutrition containing the required amount of micronutrients is essential for the normal growth of children at all stages of their development starting from the prenatal period. Prenatal nutrition and breastfeeding are entirely dependent on the mother’s diet and micronutrient sufficiency. Nutrition of pregnant and lactating women and children which is based on natural products, balanced with the energy intake and even excessive in calories cannot fully supply the body with certain vitamins. The high incidence of micronutrient deficiency among children and adults and the existence of vitamin interactions in the body are the reasons for the use of vitamin and mineral complexes (VMC) and/or specialized foods with vitamins for pregnant and lactating women, as well as special nutrition for children. VMC are more effective compared to intake of a single vitamin. Preventive doses, i.e. close to the age-specific physiological need in vitamins, provide for adequate vitamin sufficiency of the diet, reduce the risk of vitamin deficiency and its consequences. With regard to the choice of a VMC, it should contain a complete set of vitamins and mineral substances the deficiency of which is most common, in doses which satisfy the age-specific body needs.