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B12 Vitamin For Kids: Natural Sources of Vitamin B12
Updated: Oct 5
B12 vitamin for kids: Giving your children the right nutrients is essential for their growth and development. Vitamin B12 is one of these vital elements. Although Vitamin B12 is for adults, it is equally important for children. Apart from supplements, we can also obtain them from animal products and dairy products. Let us know about it in detail -
Importance of B12 Vitamin for Kids
Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin. It helps in maintaining the good health of children. Here are some of its importance:
Brain Development: Vitamin B12 helps in the development of the nervous system in children. Which is essential for their cognitive development and functioning.
Energy Production: It helps convert food into energy, ensuring that your baby remains active and alert.
Red Blood Cell Formation: Vitamin B12 helps prevent anemia and produce healthy red blood cells.
Immune System Support: It strengthens the immune system of children, thereby protecting them from diseases.
How much vitamin B12 should a child get?
The daily dose of vitamin B12 for children varies according to age. These should not be taken without expert advice. Please consult your doctor before taking:
Infants (0-6 months): 0.4 micrograms (mcg)
Infants (7-12 months): 0.5 mcg
Children (1-3 years): 0.9 mcg
Children (4-8 years): 1.2 mcg
Children (9-13 years): 1.8 mcg
Natural Sources of Vitamin B12 for Kids
Vitamin B12 can be easily obtained from a variety of dietary sources. Some of these sources are as follows:
Animal Products:
Lean meats (beef, chicken, pork)
Fish (salmon, trout, tuna)
Eggs and dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Fortified Foods:
Breakfast cereals
Plant-based milk (fortified)
Nutritional yeast
Read more: Vitamin
Read more: Nutrition Tips for Vegans and Vegetarians
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency in children:
Vitamin B12 deficiency can have adverse effects on your child's physical and mental health. If you see these symptoms in your children, contact the doctor immediately:
Fatigue and Weakness
Anemia
Loss of Appetite
Delayed Growth
Irritability and Mood Changes
Difficulty in Concentration
Vitamin B12 Supplements for Kids:
Sometimes natural sources are not able to fulfill the deficiency of Vitamin B12 in your child, hence it becomes necessary to take supplements to fulfill this deficiency. But before taking these supplements it is necessary to consult a specialist.
Chewable Tablets: Available in kid-friendly flavors, these can be a convenient option for children who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Liquid Form: Easily mixed into beverages or food, liquid B12 supplements are an excellent choice for younger kids.
Read more: 10 foods to boost the Immunity system
Cooking Tips to Preserve Vitamin B12:
To ensure your child gets the most out of their vitamin B12-rich foods, consider these cooking tips:
Avoid overcooking: Overcooking destroys essential nutrients. Therefore, choose cooking methods like steaming, baking, or grilling.
Store food properly: Meat and dairy products can spoil if left out so keep them in the refrigerator.
Include fortified foods: Include B12-fortified foods in your child's diet to increase his intake.
FAQs
1. Can low Vitamin B12 cause behavior problems?
Yes, low vitamin B12 can cause behavior problems in children. These problems include Irritability, Hyperactivity, Aggression, Difficulty concentrating, Learning disabilities, and Developmental delays.
2. Can a child get enough B12 from a vegetarian or vegan diet?
No, children who eat only vegetarian or vegan diets may not get enough vitamin B12 from food alone. Vitamin B12 is exclusively present in animal products such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Therefore, children on a vegetarian diet need to take supplements to meet the deficiency of Vitamin B12.
3. What illness causes low Vitamin B12?
There are several diseases that can lower vitamin B12 levels, including:
Pernicious anemia: This is a condition in which the body is unable to absorb vitamin B12 from food.
Celiac disease: This is an autoimmune disease that damages the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb nutrients from food.
Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining that reduces the absorption of vitamin B12.
Medications: There are several medications that interfere with vitamin B12 absorption, such as proton pump inhibitors and metformin.
4. Which fruit is rich in Vitamin B12?
There is no fruit that is high in vitamin B12. Only animal products contain vitamin B12.
5. Can Vitamin B12 deficiency be cured in children?
Yes, vitamin B12 deficiency can be cured in children with treatment. Treatment typically involves taking vitamin B12 supplements. The dose and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the deficiency and the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that cannot be ignored, especially when it comes to your children. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in everything from brain development to energy production and ensuring that your child grows up healthy and strong.
By understanding the importance of vitamin B12 and including it in your diet, you can give your child the best opportunity for growth and development. But do not forget to consult a doctor before using it.