Buying dietary supplements can be an effective way for parents to enhance their children’s nutrient intake, supporting their immunity and overall well-being. However, with so many options available, it’s essential to know how to identify high-quality products that are both safe and beneficial for your children. Key factors to consider when making informed supplement choices:
1. Read the ingredients list carefully
The first step in choosing a quality supplement is to carefully review the ingredients list. Pay close attention to excipients (inactive ingredients or fillers that serve as a base but are not active). Avoid dietary supplements containing refined sugars (sugar, glucose syrup, agave syrup...), additives, artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners (maltitol, sorbitol, dextrose, aspartame, maltodextrin, steviol glycosides, erythritol). Some substances are considered endocrine disruptors, which should be avoided, especially during childhood. Prioritize products with natural ingredients.
2. Avoid refined sugars
Many children’s supplements contain refined sugars such as corn syrup, cane sugar, glucose syrup, agave syrup, and fructose to improve taste. However, these added sugars can disrupt the gut microbiota, overload the liver, and contribute to insulin resistance. At Nuré, we use organic coconut blossom sugar, a natural sucrose source with a moderate glycemic index, rich in prebiotic fibers, and also providing small amounts of B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.
3. Choose bioavailable forms of vitamins and minerals
Not all vitamins and minerals are equal. It’s essential to select dietary supplements containing bioavailable nutrients that are easily absorbed and used by the body. For example, choose natural forms of vitamins or minerals in the bisglycinate form rather than sulfates or oxides, which are less well absorbed and create additional waste for the body.
4. Ensure dosages are appropriate
Always check that the supplement offers dosages suitable for children. Overdosing on certain vitamins and minerals can generate waste that the body has to eliminate. Look for products that clearly indicate the dosage and are specially formulated to meet children’s nutritional needs. All water-soluble vitamins are eliminated daily in urine when taken in excess, so high doses are unnecessary; it’s better to take smaller amounts daily.
5. Select the right form
The candy-like form of gummies can make kids think of them as just treats. This fun shape often leads to eating more than the recommended amount, which adds extra sugar, sweeteners, and additives. Besides taking away from the supplement's real purpose, this habit can cause health issues like tooth decay, weight gain, and even too much of certain vitamins. It’s also challenging to teach kids that candy is for special occasions while these gummies need to be taken every day.
Conclusion
Choosing the right supplements for your child is a key decision for their health and well-being. Opt for natural products without controversial additives or refined sugars, prioritizing bioavailable forms of vitamins and minerals. By reading labels carefully and avoiding potentially harmful ingredients, you can confidently support your child’s nutritional needs.
At Nuré Nutrition, we are committed to developing supplements with impeccable ingredients that you can confidently give to your children. Our products are formulated without harmful additives, refined sugars, or artificial sweeteners, using only high-quality, bioavailable vitamins and minerals to ensure optimal absorption and real health benefits for your child.
Discover our range of natural dietary supplements, specifically designed to meet children's needs and support their development with peace of mind. Created by a pediatric nutritionist, in collaboration with biologists and micronutrition experts from three renowned French laboratories, our products combine premium, bioavailable & natural ingredients to offer the best for your children.
If you are unsure about the choice or necessity of a dietary supplement, consult your doctor.
