Because kids are generally picky eaters, millions of parents supplement their children's diets with multivitamins to ensure that they receive the essential nutrients necessary to support their growth. Children love the character shapes, sweet flavor and chewy texture of gummy vitamins, so it is not uncommon for them to sneak more than one when a parent is not looking. Most people consider vitamins to be beneficial for good health, but accidental overdose is possible whenever an individual, regardless of age, consumes more than the daily recommended allowance.
Iron Overdose
Gummy vitamins containing iron pose the biggest health risk to children. An overdose of iron causes the brain, heart and lungs to malfunction, which can cause a heart attack or death, according to Dr. George Obikoya of the Vitamins and Nutrition Center website. Body weight determines the amount of iron that will cause iron poisoning; however, children generally experience symptoms when they consume more than 10 kilograms of iron, notes EMedicineHealth.com. If you suspect that your child has overdosed on iron, take him to the emergency room or contact a poison control center.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Most children's multivitamins include vitamins A, D, E and K, and these pose overdose risks as well. While these nutrients are necessary for good health, overconsumption may cause nausea, mental and physical growth retardation, irritability, increased blood pressure and organ damage, according to the Colorado State University Extension. Children must consume these vitamins regularly for good health, but taking too many fat-soluble vitamins can cause irreversible health problems. In one day, children should consume no more than 300 micrograms of vitamin A, 200 international units -- or IU -- of vitamin D, 300 milligrams of vitamin E and 5 micrograms of vitamin K in supplement form.
Preventing Accidental Overdose
Parents should never allow children to take vitamins without adult supervision. Allowing your children to see where you place the vitamin bottle can have dangerous consequences as well. Follow the directions on the vitamin bottle to ensure that the multivitamin is designed for your child's age group to prevent accidental overdose in younger children. If children are overconsuming supplements over a period of time, you may notice mood swings, irritability, weakness, lack of focus and recurrent nausea. Once children reach an age of understanding and maturity, explain the drastic consequences associated with overconsuming vitamins to your children.
Whole Food Nutrition
Most experts agree that children should get their nutrients from whole food sources. Children do not need to consume large amounts of vitamins and minerals to be healthy, according to MayoClinic.com. Whole foods provide adequate nutrition to children who eat well-balanced meals. Multivitamins should never be given to replace nutrition from foods, and parents who do choose to supplement their child's diet should consult the child's physician to determine whether it is necessary.
References
- Baby Center; The Lowdown On Children's Vitamins
- EMedicineHealth.com: Iron Poisoning
- Colorado State University Extension; Fat-Soluble Vitamins; J. Anderson and L. Young; August 2008
- Office Of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin E
- The Vitamins & Nutrition Center; Too Much Iron -- Iron Overdose; Dr. George Obikoya
- TruthInSlimming.com: Vitamin Overdose -- When Your Body's Friends Become Foes
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