Do Kids Need Vitamins? What the NHS Recommends
The short answer: the NHS recommends a daily supplement containing vitamins A, C and D for all children aged 6 months to 5 years, and vitamin D for almost everyone in autumn and winter. Beyond that, most children who eat a varied diet get what they need from food. Very fussy eaters, children on restricted diets and those with some medical conditions may need extra support.
What the NHS recommends, by age
| Age | NHS advice |
|---|---|
| Birth to 1 year | Breastfed babies: a daily vitamin D supplement of 8.5 to 10 micrograms from birth. Babies having more than 500ml of infant formula a day don't need one, because formula is already fortified. |
| 6 months to 5 years | A daily supplement containing vitamins A, C and D, unless they are having more than 500ml of formula a day. |
| 1 to 4 years | 10 micrograms of vitamin D every day, all year round. A children's A, C and D supplement usually covers this. |
| 5 years and over | 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day in autumn and winter, and all year round for children who are rarely outdoors, usually covered up, or have darker skin. |
Free vitamins through Healthy Start
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, families who qualify for the Healthy Start scheme can get free vitamin drops for children from 6 months to 4 years old. Scotland runs its own scheme. Ask your health visitor or pharmacist how to apply.
Why vitamin D is the one almost every child needs
From October to March the UK sun is not strong enough for skin to make vitamin D, and few foods contain much of it. Vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children, which is why it is the one supplement the NHS recommends for nearly everyone.
Do older children need a multivitamin?
Most children over 5 who eat a mix of fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, protein foods and dairy or fortified alternatives do not need a multivitamin. A daily top-up can make sense if your child:
- Eats a very small range of foods. See our guide to fussy eaters and magnesium.
- Follows a vegan diet, which can make vitamin B12, iodine and some other nutrients harder to get. A dietitian can help you plan.
- Has a medical condition that affects appetite or absorption.
- Has been advised to take one by a GP or dietitian.
What about minerals like magnesium?
Many children's multivitamins contain little or no magnesium, because it is a bulky mineral that is hard to fit into a gummy or chewable. Magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, normal muscle function and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Children get it from wholegrains, beans, nuts, seeds, green vegetables and milk, and picky eaters can fall short. See how much magnesium kids need and magnesium-rich foods kids will actually eat.
Don't double up
If your child takes more than one product, add up the totals. A, C and D drops plus a multivitamin can mean twice the vitamin A and D. Use products made for your child's age, stick to the dose on the label, never give adult supplements to children, and keep everything out of reach.
Choosing a children's supplement
- Made for their age, with a dose for each age band.
- No added sugar or sweeteners, if you can find one.
- A short, complete ingredients list.
- Independent lab testing, so what is on the label is what is in the bottle.
Our magnesium for kids ticks those boxes: no sugar, sweeteners, flavourings or colours, made and third-party lab tested in the UK, with 2.5ml for ages 1 to 5 and 5ml for ages 5 to 14.
Our magnesium
Liposomal Magnesium for Kids (Age 1+) is truly unflavoured, gentle on little tummies, and built for absorption. Magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system.*
*Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Consult your healthcare provider before use if your child has a medical condition or takes medication.