March 17, 2014
What do I give my kids for dietary supplementation?
This is a question that I am often asked in clinic and elsewhere. I have answered this question in previous newsletters, but it is time for an update.
First of all and most importantly, food is the primary source of all nutrients. Supplementation is a secondary principle of health and vitality. That being said there is a place for supplementation in the daily fight against disease.
With my children and my patients I generally recommend these four supplements:
1) Multi mineral multivitamin or whole food supplement. The choices are vast. With my children, I gave them Juice Plus for their toddler and elementary years. Other good choices are Mega Food or Nordic Berries by Nordic Naturals.
2) Probiotics - this is a must as far as I am concerned. I like Primadophilus and HMF neuro powder. Daily probiotics have been shown in many studies to be a prevention first supplement. They reduce infectious illness and allergy. They are a necessary piece of the well balanced human gut micro biome.
3) Omega 3 oils - I think that taking fish oil is important to balance the pro inflammatory omega 6 oils that we over consume. Nordic Naturals, Barlean's and Carlsons are three favorite brands.
4) Vitamin D - Between November and April, children will benefit from vitamin D daily. The remainder of the year, I encourage natural vitamin D development by getting 30 minutes of daily sun exposure.