Toddlers and supplements

Does my toddler need supplements?

Vitamins

The Government's Food Standards Agency recommends that all children between 6 months and 5 years are given vitamin drops containing vitamins A, C and D.

A healthy balanced diet every day should ensure your toddler is getting enough vitamins in the diet. But, not all toddlers will be eating a good diet or have a healthy appetite, so taking a vitamin supplement can safeguard against any vitamin deficiencies.

If, however, your toddler is drinking more than 500ml formula milk, they’ll be getting the vitamins they need from this formula so they won’t require any extra vitamin supplements. If they are drinking less formula than this, it’s advisable to give them the supplements.

For more advice, have a look at Helen's video below.

Iron

You should be able to ensure your toddler has enough iron in the diet by offering them a good range of foods in the diet from the following iron-containing foods:

• Red meat
• Pulses and beans
• Eggs
• Green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach and watercress
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Bread

Giving your toddler fruit juice or other food high in vitamin C at the same meal as iron-containing foods will help their body to absorb the iron better. If you are still concerned about your toddler's iron status, ask your doctor or health visitor who should be able to advise you on whether iron supplements are necessary.

For more advice, watch Helen's video below.

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