Vitamin C is an important nutrient for the growth and development of your children for many reasons. However, today’s children have hectic routines and not-so-healthy food habits. This can lead to Vitamin C deficiency and increases the need for them to take Vitamin C in higher amounts.
Screen time has increased as a requirement for online teaching and entertainment. This has had a huge effect on immunity levels. Another factor is that kids today often avoid meals or enjoy eating junk food more. If your kids do not consume their meals properly and do not have healthy meals, they tend to miss out on adequate amounts of Vitamin C for children. If this continues, your child may have illnesses that occur due to the deficiency of Vitamin C.
What is Vitamin C for kids and how does it function?
Vitamin C for children is an essential micronutrient for the immune system. It is also a potent antioxidant. It protects immune system cells from oxidative damage. The vital Vitamin C plays numerous other roles in supporting their health including bolstering the immune system to combat illnesses and infections.
Additionally, Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, contributing to the growth of strong bones, teeth, and connective tissues crucial for physical growth. Furthermore, Vitamin C helps in the production of iron, vital for the production of red blood cells and for preventing any possibilities of diseases like anemia.
Which food contains Vitamin C
Fortunately, Vitamin C is widely available in many foods which makes it easy to incorporate into your child’s diet.
- Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are some of the most well-known sources of Vitamin C. Other fruits like kiwi, pineapple, mangoes, papaya, and berries like strawberries, and blackberries are also rich in Vitamin C.
- Apart from fruits, vegetables are also excellent sources of Vitamin C. Broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower, kale, spinach, and tomatoes are some of the vegetables that contain high levels of Vitamin C.
- Certain herbs and spices, such as thyme, and coriander, are also good sources of Vitamin C.
- Fortified foods such as cereals, bread, and juices are also available in the market. These are fortified with Vitamin C, making it easier for people to consume adequate amounts of the nutrient.
To ensure that one gets enough Vitamin C, it is recommended to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables daily. Cooking methods can also affect the amount of Vitamin C present in food. It is best to consume fruits and vegetables raw or lightly cooked to retain the maximum amount of Vitamin C.
Benefits of vitamin C for children
Vitamin C is widely recognized for its manifold health benefits for children, including its ability to boost immunity and combat ailments.
- Adequate intake of Vitamin C is essential for the optimal development of the immune system and the overall well-being of children.
- Vitamin C supports brain health. It helps make neurotransmitters and boost thinking. It also plays a role in the formation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates mood and behavior.
- Vitamin C has an important role in multiple bodily functions, such as the production of collagen, an essential component for the growth and repair of skin, muscles, and bones. It is a potent antioxidant that safeguards cells and tissues against oxidative damage, promoting healthy living.
- Vitamin C is imperative for the development and functioning of key immune cells, vital for the immune processes and to reinforce the immune system’s ability to ward off infections and illnesses.
- Vitamin C also enhances the absorption of iron from food, which supports the production of red blood cells that prevent anemia, particularly useful during rapid growth phases.
Some essential facts about vitamin C for kids to consider
It is important to note that Vitamin C is easily damaged by heat and prolonged storage, which can reduce the nutrient content in food. Therefore, it is recommended to encourage your child to eat raw fruits and vegetables or lightly steam them to retain the maximum amount of Vitamin C.
If your child consumes more Vitamin C than required, there is no need to worry, as any excess Vitamin C is excreted from the body. In cases where your child is a picky eater or requires additional Vitamin C, you may rely on oral supplements.
As parents, it is crucial to ensure that your child has a well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. In some cases, even after a balanced diet, supplements may be needed to provide the necessary nourishment. It is recommended to follow the pediatrician’s advice and give your child trusted and available Vitamin C oral supplements. This will protect and nourish them in their formative years.
In conclusion, ensuring an adequate intake of Vitamin C for children is essential for their overall health and well-being. Vitamin C is a key antioxidant. It plays a vital role in supporting the immune system. It helps protect children from infections and illnesses. It helps make collagen. Collagen is a protein needed for tissue growth and repair, such as skin, bones, and blood vessels. This promotes healthy growth and development.
At Kangaroo International Preschool, we ensure that your kids are sensitized about the importance of taking Vitamin C in their diet. Contact us today, and get to know the importance and uses of adding Vitamin C for kids.
