Hmm…
WHAT SHOULD A PARENT LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SUPPLEMENTS FOR THEIR CHILD?
It’s important to realize taking supplements does not make up for an unhealthy diet. Supplements are an insufficient substitute for nutrients from fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, though a general multivitamin and essential fatty acids (EFAs/ Omega 3’s) can be an extraordinary addition to most American diets (children and adults). It’s also important that parents understand what they are buying and why. This is where it’s suggested to speak with a qualified health care practitioner to run appropriate tests when necessary and get the big picture of your child’s health.
Ok, so what to look for:
1. I prefer purchasing supplements from a health food store or direct online, from a reputable company that specializes in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) vs. supermarket, discount store. Generally, the folks working in health food stores have a vast array of information about the many different vitamins, minerals, supplements they sell and will share a wealth of information about the quality and purification processes for each brand. When purchasing on line, prices may be a bit less. Don’t be shy about speaking with customer service so they can answer all of your questions about the product.
2. Fish oil is highly prone to oxidation and must be processed in an oxygen-free environment. Effective distillation process is critical to removing impurities. Companies such as Nordic Naturals (www.nordicnaturals.com), molecularly distills their fish oil, guaranteeing freshness. (And they are great about sending out the research literature and samples too. This is one company that stands behind their high caliber product – I know this first hand, as many of my clients use Nordic Naturals Fish Oil).
3. You want to be sure that the product is “third party tested” to ensure that what the product claims is in the bottle, is actually “in” the bottle (product). Third party testing means that an outside company is testing the product – it is not tested by the manufacturing company.
4. The USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia) is an organization that tests vitamins and supplements to ensure that products: contain what is stated on the label, the supplement doesn't contain harmful contaminants, the supplement will actually break down and release ingredients into the body, and that the manufacturer uses good quality control practices when producing its supplements. Products passing the USP testing will have “USP verified” on the label.
5. Supplements should not contain artificial colors (dyes), flavors, or preservatives.
6. Look for supplements that contain organic ingredients.
7. If possible purchase supplements that do not contain milk or soy additives.
8. Check the expiration date, products become less potent over time.
9. The National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements provides fact sheets on nearly every imaginable herbal dietary supplement.
10. When putting together an individualized vitamin, mineral supplement program, it’s best to consult with a qualified practitioner. Some supplements may need to be discontinued prior to a surgery For example, EFAs are a natural blood thinner and should typically be discontinued prior to surgery. Your MD can advise safe time frames for stopping and restarting supplementation.
The road to recovery for all persons with a diagnosis of autism or any other illness or disorder, will have its share of ups and downs. I have seen children and families make huge strides when incorporating nutrition into their lifestyle. Each child is an individual with unique needs – there is not one diet or supplement that will be right for all. DHA and EPA, the Omega 3’s are vital and essential nutrients for optimal brain function. It’s always best to check with your MD to ensure that other medications will not have a negative effect in combination with supplements.
A healthy brain and neurological system can best support a healthy, happy child!
Wishing all parents the confidence to follow your instinct and the determination to seek out answers. There is much research being conducted on the brain and smart nutrients to support brain growth and development. It is of the utmost importance to know what you are supplementing with and why. If you have any questions, Lauren is happy to support parents’ on their journey and can be reached at: 404.944.9561 or zimetslp@aol.com.
-written by Lauren Zimet
Lauren Zimet, M.S.,CCC/SLP, N.D.T. Certified, has been in the speech language pathology field for 15 years, specializing with medically involved children with oral motor/feeding and communication issues, as well as neurotypical children supporting healthy development and enhancing self esteem. She is the founder of Healthy Foundations, an Atlanta based brain health education and social thinking program geared for infants and children of all abilities. Lauren has been published in a variety of publications: Parenting Magazine, Advance Magazine for Audiologists and Speech Pathologists, and contributed to the LCP Solution by Dr. Jacqueline Stordy and the Late Talker, by Dr. Marilyn Agin. She holds a M.S. in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University, FL and a B.S. from the University of Maryland in Communications. Lauren is passionate about promoting brain health awareness for babies, children and adults. Please visit www.earlyinsights.com for more information.
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