Kids get adequate amounts of nutrients they need by having a balanced and nutritious diet. However, many kids, especially toddlers, are picky eaters. Thus, nutritious food can be overlooked. This scenario calls for the help of multivitamins for kids in order to fill in the nutritional gap needed for their growth and normal body functions.
Kids' dietary needs can vary depending on age, sex, height, growth, and activity levels. Hence, the dosage must cater to each individual child. In this article, we aim to help you choose the best multivitamins for kids in the Philippines. To do this, we will be providing you with a list of the best multivitamin products from different brands and a buying guide reviewed by pharmacist Robi Uy!
Robi began his career in Watsons Philippines as the Senior Pharmacist in SM Mall of Asia Entertainment Mall branch. His experience as a Dispensing Pharmacist enabled him to become an expert in Community Pharmacy practice and the overall Retail Pharmacy operations. Currently, he is the Regulatory Affairs Senior Assistant Manager of Unilever Philippines. His knowledge about Pharmacy and related Regulations enables him to provide and share relevant information about regulated products such as food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices to consumers.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some key points to consider:
1. Pick a formulation that's easy for your child to take.
2. Look for nutrients that support overall health.
3. Check the dosage to avoid overdosing.
4. Purchase from a trusted brand to ensure safety and quality.
For more information, read through our buying guide below.
Since children tend to find it challenging to swallow regular pills, it is vital to find formulations that are easier to take like chewable tablets and gummies. When choosing multivitamins for children, it is also crucial to select ones with kid-favorable flavors to ensure they won't have any difficulty taking them.
Most chewable multivitamins for kids are fruit-based flavors. They are usually derived from lemon, raspberry, cherry, and orange. On top of that, they vary in colors and shapes, resembling candies to encourage young children to take them. Most of them also have a soft texture, like gummy bears that make them easier and more enjoyable to take.
However, take note that some chewable vitamins may contain additives like sugar and food coloring that are linked to obesity, heart disease, and dental cavities. Hence, it is important to only give your child the recommended amount per day.
Non-chewable capsules or tablets are also known as swallow pills. These should be swallowed directly with water and must not be chewed or crushed so that they can do their job as they should. Little kids may find them hard to take; thus, they are more suitable for older kids.
The body absorbs liquid multivitamins quicker and betterーup to 98 percent. Its fast effect is due to its formulation being easier to digest than a solid chewable. On top of that, the liquid form contains pure nutrients because it does not have any filler or casing. However, unlike other formulations, this one requires to be stored in the fridge to maintain its shelf life.
Multivitamins can help meet the nutritional needs of children who may not have a balanced diet. However, before giving these supplements, you must determine which vitamins and other nutrients they need and be informed of each nutrient's effect on the body.
Vitamin A has antioxidant properties, proven to protect healthy cells. It strengthens the immune system to shield your child's body from infections and diseases. It also helps maintain clear eyesight and keeps some parts of the skin healthy.
On the other hand, vitamin C, commonly known as ascorbic acid, keeps the cells healthy by also protecting them. Moreover, it does a good job of healing wounds and is important for healthy skin because it repairs tissues in all parts of the body.
Meanwhile, vitamin E can help your child's body organs to function normally. It can also act as an antioxidant that helps to slow down the processes of damaging cells. It keeps the immune system healthy to fight against bacteria and viruses as well.
Vitamin B complex includes vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12. Each of the B vitamins plays a vital role in your child's body. They affect and support energy levels, brain function, and cell metabolism, making sure that all their body parts are functioning well.
Vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium in the body for healthy bones and muscles. Early morning sunlight is a good source of vitamin D for the skin, but taking vitamin D supplements is beneficial for those who cannot out often, like your children, who mostly stay indoors during this time.
On the other hand, vitamin K is also important as it makes proteins for your child's healthy bones and normal blood clotting. Leafy vegetables are good sources of vitamin K, but for those kids who are not very fond of eating these vegetables, multivitamins that contain vitamin K can be an additional source.
Multivitamins for kids can also contain various minerals. Calcium is a common mineral you can encounter. As children grow, calcium contributes to the development of their bones. It also regulates muscle contraction, as when a nerve stimulates another nerve, the body releases calcium. Moreover, it is also helpful in keeping your kid's teeth strong and healthy.
Iodine is something you can also find in these multivitamins for kids. It controls metabolism and other body functions. It is also good at fighting bacteria, which can help prevent infection in wounds. Apart from iodine, you'll also see iron as a common ingredient of multivitamins. A proper amount of iron can promote healthy blood and prevent iron deficiency in children.
In order to keep your child safe, make sure to read the label and follow the recommended amount of vitamin intake each day. Also, before administering any vitamin supplement, take into consideration the age of your child when following the recommended dose.
Remember that checking the safety of these products is as crucial as checking those of foods and drinks. Brands that stand out in the market have remarkable reputations because of their stringent manufacturing processes, measures, and controls, leading to high-quality supplements. Thus, by buying from trusted brands, you can be assured that the multivitamins are safe and effective.
To be more sure of your kids' safety, it is better to consult with a pediatrician first before administering multivitamins to your children. Doctors can determine which vitamins your children lack. They can also advise you on the proper dosage according to your child's age and individual needs.
From ₱995
SmartyPants created a multivitamin for kids that can serve as a dietary supplement since some of them do not like the taste of vegetables. It is considered an all-in-one gummy because it has essential nutrients, including omega 3, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D3, that will fill a range of nutritional gaps.
Staying true to the brand's "We're Called The Good Gummy for a Reason" tagline, its all-natural flavors are derived from spices, fruits, vegetables, and herbs to make the gummies extra yummy. In addition, this multivitamin is also made with no artificial colors and additives.
Because of its pure and healthy ingredients, Smarty Pants received the Clean Label Project's Purity Award, the highest overall rating for product purity and value. This multivitamin is also well-loved by customers and has received positive reviews for its efficacy.
From ₱1,199
With L'il Critter Gummy Vites, parents can guarantee that their child is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need to be healthy. Thanks to its antioxidants and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, it gives eye, cell, and bone support, plus an enhanced immune system. It also contains Lutein that protects kids' vision.
Apart from that, this product does not contain gluten and dairy, so it is safe for kids who are intolerant to gluten-containing food, such as wheat and dairy products. It is made from natural sources, too, and does not contain artificial ingredients, such as high fructose corn syrup, synthetic dyes, artificial flavor, and sweeteners.
Plus, even though it does not have additives, the gummies have a soft, chewy texture that comes in various fruit flavors in one bottle, such as cherry, strawberry, orange, pineapple, and blueberry. It also comes in cute bear shapes, so kids will surely love these delicious and nutritious gummy vitamins.
From ₱191
Filipinos are very familiar with this brand. Even now, we joke about our tall friends as Cherifer kids due to their product's height-increasing properties, and this has been proven over the years! So, if you want a multivitamin to make your child taller, Cherifer is highly recommended as it fosters children's growth and development.
It contains Chlorella Growth Factor to help give their growing body a boost. Chlorella is a high-quality protein rich in amino acids that stimulate growth, repair tissues, and heal wounds. It also contains a high amount of taurine that helps in active, growing children's mental, visual, and motor development.
From ₱599.95
For more than 50 years, Flintstones multivitamins have provided kids nutritional support. Most of us grew up taking these vitamins as a routine after every breakfast. Because of the tablet's fun shape and design, we loved taking it as we got to pick a character to eat. It also came with a delicious candy-like taste that made you want more.
Pediatricians trust this product because it offers a wide range of nutrients in easy-to-chew tablets. It has vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and Zinc that support your child's physical energy by helping convert food to fuel. This blend of ingredients also supports bone health, immune health, eye health, and overall wellness.
From ₱370
Propan TLC is a dietary supplement formulated for kids to help maintain adequate nutrition, which is essential for their growth and development. It comes in an orange-flavored formula that will surely be a hit with kids even though it is not a chewable gummy.
This product contains three main minerals, known as TLC: Taurine, Lysine, and Chlorella. They are the sources of building blocks for muscles, blood, skin, hair, nails, and internal organs like the heart and the brain. It is also Enriched with Vitamin A, B, C, D, and E and boosts a child's appetite, making it perfect for kids who need balanced nutrition.
From ₱464
These gummies by Scott's are packed with DHA, a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid that helps children's brain development and function. Although DHA-enriched, you won't have to worry about your kid not liking them, as the brand uses microencapsulation technology to remove the fishy taste and smell, leaving a sweet fruity flavor that they'll surely love.
Scott's recommends an intake of 3 of these gummies daily. Apart from aiding in your child's cognitive development, they can also help enhance their memory for better brain performance. Besides DHA, these gummies are also infused with Vitamin D to strengthen or develop strong bones and boost your child's immune system.
From ₱1,225
These multivitamin gummies from OLLY are formulated with essential vitamins and minerals, namely, vitamins A, C, D, E, Bs, and Zinc. On top of that, each gummy comes in a berry punch flavor, so this product will definitely be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
What makes these multivitamins for kids different is that it contains live probiotics, the good kind of bacteria that provides balance to your kids' tummies. With this, not only do you meet your child's nutritional needs, but you also get to keep their digestive system healthy!
From ₱63.25
Tiki-Tiki has always been known as an appetite booster. It is a trusted multivitamin brand that promotes a healthy appetite and good health for your kids. This particular product, Tiki-Tiki Star Syrup, is only for children aged two years old and above. If your child is younger than two years, you can purchase its counterpart, Tiki-Tiki Drops.
It has the ability to increase children's appetite because it contains Lysine and Vitamin B-Complex. It also comes with other essential vitamins such as vitamin A for good eyesight, vitamin C for an improved immune system, vitamin D for strong, healthy bones and muscles, and Vitamin E for healthy skin.
From ₱469
Centrum has always been known as a complete multivitamin brand for adults, and it now offers a formulation for kids, too. This multivitamin aims to fill in nutritional gaps and support children's immune systems. It comes in strawberry-flavored, chewable tablets that they can easily take.
With 18 vitamins and minerals, complete from A to Zinc, it will surely provide necessary nutrients at the proper levels to support your child's health and body. It enhances immunity, eyesight, teeth, and gums. And it is an ideal diet partner, especially for children who are picky when it comes to food.
This multivitamin is only for children aged three years old and up. To maximize its efficacy, it is crucial to remember that kids should chew and not swallow this tablet. Although it might be pricier than other options, you can count on its safety and efficacy as Centrum is a trusted brand.
From ₱599
Health Fusion might be new to your ears, but it is an excellent product worth trying. The company strives to provide Filipinos with a great-tasting, convenient, and alternative form of getting nutrition. This particular product, Multivites, is an all-natural multivitamin with essential nutrients and minerals.
It comes in colorful and delicious chewable gummies that your child will surely like. Besides supporting your child's immune system, it can also improve brain development, strengthen bones, stimulate energy production, and maintain healthy eyes and skin. The best thing? The whole family can benefit from these gummies!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Generally, healthy children do not need multivitamins. Ideally, they should get their vitamins from a balanced, healthy diet. The best time to give children multivitamins is when they are prescribed by their doctor. The only age group that is routinely prescribed multivitamins are breastfeeding infants, who need a vitamin D supplement from birth until they stop breastfeeding.
Multivitamins are not necessary for children if they have a healthy, balanced diet. Rather than relying on supplements, it is best to commit to feeding them healthy foods. However, if you think your kid might need it, it is best to consult a pediatrician in order to determine if your child has unmet nutritional needs.
Your child may be hyperactive for a number of other reasons. Additives and sugar, which some multivitamins contain, are not linked to children's hyperactivity. If you are concerned about your child's hyperactivity, consult a pediatrician.
Staying healthy is of utmost importance, especially that we're now at a time where we could already get sick just by stepping foot out of our houses and meeting people. To combat those nasties, we have prepared more buying guides and top 10 lists below!
Author: Roel Pillas Malubay
Re-editor: Beatrice Fajardo
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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