Vitamin C is important for many of your child's bodily functions. According to the USDA, vitamin C is an important part of all children's diets and is even more so to those children that are exposed to cigarette smoke on a daily basis. Eating a healthy well-balanced diet should provide your child with enough vitamin C to meet the daily requirements; however, getting your child to eat healthy can be challenging. Speak with your child's pediatrician before adding vitamin C supplements to your child's diet.
Function
Vitamin C is necessary for the repair and growth of every cell in the body as well as for the formation of collagen. In addition, vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps block damage caused by free radicals, according to MedLinePlus. Vitamin C is not made by the body; therefore, it must be obtained through your child's daily diet. Vitamin C can help your child's immune system fight bacterial, fungal and viral illnesses from developing.
Deficiency
Vitamin C deficiencies can result in a condition known as scurvy which can lead to joint pain, hair loss and bruising and bleeding easily. Doctors may perform skeletal x-rays on children to determine if this condition has developed if vitamin C deficiency is suspected. Additional signs of vitamin C deficiency can include bleeding gums, dry skin, nosebleeds, anemia, compromised immune system, weakened tooth enamel and dry hair.
Sources
Fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C; however, not all fruits and vegetables contain an adequate amount. For example, those with the highest amounts of vitamin C include citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, green peppers, cantaloupe, pineapples, cabbage and raspberries. Fruit juices that are made with 100 percent fruit juice are also good vitamin C sources. Adding a piece of fruit such as an orange or grapefruit to your child's breakfast or provide vitamin C-rich snacks, such as chilled orange slices for your child before going to athletic or after school activities will help him meet his daily vitamin C requirements.
Recommendations
The recommended vitamin C dosage varies depending on your child's age and gender. Male and female children between the ages of 9 and 13 should get 75 mg of vitamin C per day. Female children between the ages of 14 and 18 need 65 mg of vitamin C per day, while male children in that range should consume 75 mg per day.
Possible Side Effects
Vitamin C toxicity is rare as the vitamin is not made or stored by the body. However, according to MedLinePlus, doses of more than 2,000 mg per day are not recommended as it may cause diarrhea and upset stomach.
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