Dietary supplements are meant to fill nutrient gaps and are not meant to be replacements for a healthy diet.1 That’s why they are called “supplements.” Children in particular may need a little extra dietary support, especially those picky eaters. But getting kids to take their vitamins can be challenging. That’s where gummies come in!
Why Gummy Supplements?
Swallowing pills is no fun for little ones. After all, who wants to take medicine when you're that young? But if you hand your little one a great-tasting chewable gummy in the morning, they are more likely to take it with a smile on their face.
The obvious appeal to gummies is that they taste great, but research also shows that they are highly bioavailable, meaning they are better absorbed. Better bioavailability means more nutrients are available to support your child’s health.
In one study looking at the absorption of vitamin D gummies, the gummies were significantly better absorbed than tablets.2 Another study involving vitamin C gummies found that the absorption and bioavailability of the gummies were similar to caplets.3
There are a wide variety of different types of gummy supplements on the market so choose carefully.
What to Look for in a Vitamin Gummy
A great place to start when choosing a gummy for your child is with a multivitamin. The best multivitamin for kids will contain 11 essential vitamins and minerals to help support strong bones, immunity, and energy. By providing kids with the right balance of nutrients in an easy-to-take delicious gummy, you’ll be creating a solid foundation so kids can thrive as they grow. Be sure the multivitamin supplement you choose is USDA Certified Organic without any artificial flavors or colors.
In addition to a multivitamin, other important nutrients are available as a gummy including vitamins D and C, magnesium, and melatonin. Vitamin D and C help support the immune system, as well as healthy bones and muscles.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that can help support everything from cellular energy production and nerve function to healthy bones and muscles. A 2016 study also found that magnesium may help support focus, attention, and brain function.4
Some kids may also benefit from melatonin. A 2023 analysis of eight randomized clinical trials showed that melatonin helped support sound sleep in children and adolescents.5
When choosing a high-quality gummy for your child, look for a low-sugar product with natural flavors such as fruit and vegetable juices. Ready to try it? KAL MultiSaurus® Kids Organic Multivitamin Gummy provides 11 essential vitamins and minerals in delicious gummies.
When supplementing your child’s diet, you may want to consider a vitamin gummy. It will give you peace of mind while giving them a tasty treat. Wellness has never tasted so good!
For more tips on nutrition, mind & body health, and taking care of your family follow us on Facebook @kalvits and Instagram at @kalvitamins!
References
- Dickinson A, MacKay D, Wong A. Consumer attitudes about the role of multivitamins and other dietary supplements: report of a survey. Nutrition Journal. 2015;14. https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-015-0053-9
- Wagner CL, Shary JR, Nietert PJ, Wahlquist AE, Ebeling MD, Hollis BW. Bioequivalence Studies of Vitamin D Gummies and Tablets in Healthy Adults: Results of a Cross-Over Study. Nutrients. 2019;11(5):1023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566230/?report=reader
- Evans M, Guthrie N, Zhang HK, et al. Vitamin C bioequivalence from gummy and caplet sources in healthy adults: a randomized-controlled trial. J Am Coll Nutr. 2020;39(5):422-431. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31747355/
- El Baza F, Alshahawi H, Zahra S, AbdelHakim R. Magnesium supplementation in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics. 2016;17(1):63-70. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1110863015000555
- Edemann-Callesen H, Anderson H, Ussing A, et al. Use of melatonin in children and adolescents with idiopathic insomnia: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and clinical recommendation. The Lancet. 2023;61. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(23)00225-0/fulltext
