Vitamin and Mineral Supplement Needs in Normal Children in the United States

摘要

An expert panel reviewed the information available on nutrient needs for children. They provided guidelines that address the needs of preterm infants, full-term infants, older infants, children, and pregnant teenagers. The needs for vitamins D, E, and K, folic acid, iron and fluoride were particularly considered. The panel indicated that well-nourished infants and children have little or no need of supplementation. Some need for additional iron may exist, but this is best provided via fortified formula or infant cereals. Breast-fed infants may need vitamin D supplementation. Multivitamin-multimineral supplements usually are indicated for preterm infants until they weigh about 2.5 kg, and for at risk children. Pregnant teenagers may also require similar supplementation. The panel also recommended the inclusion of certain trace minerals in multi-mineral supplements.