Why Gummie Vitamins Are Not As “Sweet” As You Think

 

In an effort to raise profits someone decided that marketing vitamins in gummie form would be a great way to make a lot of money – and they were right.

It had very little to do with health and a lot to do with profit.

So why did gummie vitamins become so popular?

Because as parents, we are always looking for an easy way to get something healthy into our kids, but we are all so busy that we often take shortcuts in the hope of at least getting something accomplished.

Parents want their kids to be healthy and they recognize the need to supplement. However, often times kids go through picky stages and getting them to take a vitamin can be a challenge - One that many parents simply do not have the time or energy for.

So insert the gummie vitamin. One that tastes just like the candy.

The only problem is, they don’t work, are full of the same nasty ingredients as the candy and are a huge waste of money.

Since gummy vitamins are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the nutrients they contain may not match what’s on their labels.

In fact, a recent report found that 80% of gummy vitamins tested did not have the same amounts of vitamins and minerals as listed on their labels.

And even when the labels are accurate, gummy vitamins may have fewer overall nutrients than their non-gummy counterparts. That's because manufacturers can't pack in as many vitamins and minerals when they have to add sugars, colorings, and other filler compounds that are used to maintain the gummy texture.

Vitamins are critical to healthy growth because even if kids eat fairly healthy, they still can’t get all they need from diet alone.

Gummie vitamins, while a neat idea, just can’t fill in the gaps.

The best bet is to eat healthy, exercise, drink plenty of filtered water and take real, healthful supplements in the right amounts and in the right form.

Below is my recommendation for children as a Certified Practical Nutrition Advisor and these are what I use exclusively in our family.

 

For ages 4-12: Incredivites – 

A chewable, tasty vitamin that does NOT contain any sugar or artificial ingredients.
For kids younger than 4, some can take (1) of these per day, but only if they can chew well. Some parents crush it and add to applesauce, yogurt, etc. Contact me for helpful suggestions.
For kids older than 12 I recommend the Vita-Lea with iron. They’re big kids now and need more of the nutrients. They can still take the Incredivites, but it will take twice as many of the children’s vitamins to equal the grown up one and that can cost more money.

Worried about swallowing issues? Don’t be. Most kids can swallow large chunks of pizza and hot dogs with no problem, so swallowing a tablet is doable – if you don’t make a big deal out of it. I can help you teach your child to swallow a tablet with a few simple tricks. Just reach out to me.
Tip: Start them early and you won’t have any trouble.

 

For ages 4-12: MightySmart – 

Natural, pure DHA. Kid-friendly and scientifically formulated with 100% natural, ultra-pure DHA, one of the most important omega-3 fatty acids in the brain and eyes. It has no added artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. This little, tasty chew is just what growing brains and developing eyes need.

For kids older than 12 or sooner if they can easily swallow a gel cap, I recommend switching to OmegaGuard.

The ONLY gummie I recommend at this time is not for a multivitamin, but is for immune health: SuperImmunity Gummies for kids (but you’ll find yourself sneaking them, too)

It's loaded with vitamins C and D, zinc, and the powerful antioxidants from elderberries.
Super Immunity is naturally sweetened with erythritol and xylitol, which do not promote tooth decay.
This is a very tasty and easy way to boost your kiddo’s immune health, especially now with school back in session.
This is not a multivitamin, just an immune booster, so you can add it to your kids’ vitamin regimen.

 

So there are my recommendations for children’s vitamins. With the exception of the SuperImmunity gummies, I do NOT recommend gummie vitamins for kids.

They do not have enough of the vitamins needed for good health in them and they are full of nasty chemicals your kid doesn’t need to supplement with!

 

As always, reach out to me if you would like a personal consultation and we can discuss your health and children’s health.

Make your appointment today. Visit YouToBeHealthy.com/Wellness

Be well my friends,

Julie