Supplements for Kids
Randall Neustaedter OMD, LAc, CCH
Establishing the proper ratio of fats in
a child's diet is one of the most important
nutritional adjustments a parent can initiate.
Most children have a significant imbalance
of fats, too much omega-6 fats (vegetable
oils) and trans fats (fried foods and hydrogenated
fats), not enough omega-3 fats. This imbalance
contributes to allergies, infections, and
attention problems.
Fish, chickens, and eggs are good sources
of omega-3 fats if the animals eat green plants
and algae. Get organic chickens and their
eggs. Supplement kids' diets with organic
eggs and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) derived
from algae or fish oil. A 100 mg capsule of
DHA derived from algae (called neuromins)
or one teaspoon of cod liver oil per 50 pounds
of body weight will provide adequate omega-3
fats.
Vitamin E will ensure that fatty acids are
maintained at optimum efficiency once they
are absorbed into cells. In addition, vitamin
E has anti-inflammatory effects and increases
resistance to infection. Use only natural
vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol), not the synthetic
form (dl-alpha-tocopherol). A mixed tocopherol
form of vitamin E is best because children
need the gamma as well as the alpha forms.
A calcium supplement is essential for children
who are restricting dairy products (500 mg).
The best forms of calcium for supplementation
are calcium malate or calcium citrate, because
calcium carbonate is produced from oyster
shells, which can be contaminated with heavy
metals, and because calcium carbonate is not
as readily absorbed. Magnesium will assist
calcium absorption.
Zinc stimulates immune function, prevents
infections, and acts as a cofactor in many
enzyme reactions, including the creation of
antioxidants. Children with allergies and
frequent infections should take extra zinc.
If zinc supplementation is continued over
a prolonged period of time, it should be given
in conjunction with copper in a ratio of ten
to one to prevent copper deficiency.
Children's diets should contain large amounts
of natural vitamins A and C derived from fruits
(oranges, strawberries, peaches, nectarines,
mango) and vegetables (broccoli, carrots,
squash, yams, red bell peppers). Vitamin A
is also found in fish and eggs. Both vitamins
are antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
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them at a health food store. - Jane Sheppard,
Editor, Healthy Child Newsletter
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Dr. Neustaedter has practiced homeopathy
and oriental medicine for over 25 years, specializing
in child health care. An accomplished and
well-recognized author, he has written The
Vaccine Guide: Risks and Benefits for Children
and Adults (North Atlantic Books, 2002),
a book that helps consumers make informed
choices about vaccination. His new book, Child
Health Guide: Holistic Pediatrics for Parents
(North Atlantic Books, 2005), represents a
state of the art guide to raising children
with natural medical care. He can be reached
through his extensive website at www.cure-guide.com.
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Use the information provided on this site as an educational resource for determining your options and making your own informed choices. It is not intended as medical advice or to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any specific illness.