September 2026
If your child isn’t eating a well-balanced diet, you may wonder whether they need a vitamin supplement. While a children’s multivitamin is safe for many kids, it isn’t always necessary.
Here are five common reasons that your child may need vitamin or mineral support.
1. No dairy (due to preference or allergy). Dairy is a key source of calcium, and milk is fortified with vitamin D. If your child doesn’t drink a fortified milk substitute (like fortified soy or almond milk), consider a supplement with vitamin D and calcium.
2. No red meat (and limited iron-rich foods). Red meat is a key source of iron for many kids. Iron is also found in shellfish and plant-based sources, like lentils and nuts. If your child isn’t eating any iron-rich foods, they may need an iron supplement.
3. Vegan diet. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products: eggs, dairy, fish, red meat, and poultry. If your child follows a vegan diet, they will typically need a B12 supplement.
4. Breastfeeding. Breastmilk has many benefits, but it’s low in vitamin D. Breastfed and combo-fed babies generally need vitamin D drops.
5. Malabsorption-related conditions. This includes celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. Because these diseases impact the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, your child is at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including vitamins B and D, iron, and calcium.
Ask your pediatrician before starting any supplements. Your local pharmacist can recommend specific supplements and the proper dosage.
