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From the time your first child is born to when your last child is fully grown, making sure they get the right vitamins and minerals is a crucial component to their development and growth. Do you know what the important vitamins and minerals for children are? Dr. Diem Do, and the team at Smile in Style, Diem Do DDS, have been educating parents in Marrero, Louisiana, on this topic.
When you become a parent, you suddenly have a million, and one responsibilities thrust upon you. In addition to so many other things, knowing which nutrients are essential can be overwhelming. We are here to help! We know you understand the importance nutrition plays in your child’s development, even if you are unsure of the specifics. That is why we have outlined some important vitamins and minerals which should be a part of your child’s diet and where you can find them.
Vitamin A is not essential because it lies at the beginning of the alphabet but because it promotes development. Your child will undergo numerous growth spurts throughout the first 20 years of life. When a period of growth occurs, your child’s muscles, bones, and tissues will need the assistance of vitamin A to help grow and repair itself. You can find vitamin A in orange and yellow vegetables, as well as in cheese, eggs, and milk.
Vitamin B is one of the more confusing vitamins. After all, there are eight of them! When considering which ones you need to know for developing children and young adults, you should focus on B2, B3, B6, and B12. This group of vitamins plays many roles in your child’s development. They assist with blood circulation, the nervous system, metabolism, and energy levels. Look for your B vitamins in chicken, eggs, beans, nuts, milk, fish, and cheese.
Iron is a crucial mineral. It is critically important for the production of new red blood cells, muscles, and brain development. It is vital, especially in girls who have begun to menstruate. That is because iron plays a crucial role in the transportation of oxygen into red blood cells throughout the body. You will find iron in red meats, beets, spinach, and more.
Two major minerals many children lack are calcium, and vitamin D. Calcium plays a vital role in the development of strong bones. Children are always falling, so strong bones are essential. You will find calcium in most dairy products, and some fruit juices are calcium-fortified also.
You should think of vitamin D as calcium’s partner in the development of bones and muscles. Without vitamin D, the body has a tough time absorbing the calcium it takes in. The best and most accessible source of vitamin D is something everybody has access to … sunlight! If you provide this to your child as a supplement, be very cautious about the amounts you are giving, as vitamin D can be toxic when given in large doses.
Last on our list are these amazing fatty acids found in fish and seed oils. Omega-3 fatty acids promote cardiovascular health and a healthy brain. If you aren’t feeding your child fish twice a week, they may not be getting the recommended amount.
In addition to what has been detailed here, minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium all play a critical role in your child’s growth and development. One of the significant ways you can help with the development of your child’s teeth and bones is to make sure they are getting the proper nutrition. Please call (504) 340-9400 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Do.
Dr. Diem Do set up his private practice after graduating from the University of New Orleans and LSU School of Dentistry. He follows continuing education for the benefit of his patients. Dr. Tami Nguyen is a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana and LSU School of Dentistry. Both are members of top professional organizations like the American Dental Association and New Orleans and Louisiana Dental Associations. They are trusted and respected by the community for their high-quality dental services.
Our patients have wonderful things to say about the care they receive from Dr. Do and his team.
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