Chewable
vitamins, also known as gummy bears, have always been known for being bad for
the teeth. But, over the last couple of decades, several doctors consider them
as a health food.
Chewable
vitamins found a place on the supplement aisle of pharmacies all across the
globe, even though to some, this may sound quite ironic. Now do not be too
surprised. Kids love gummy bears, so making them an alternative to the bitter medications
seemed viable.
The
following write-up specifies the pros and cons of chewable vitamins. Please
check them out before arriving at a decision.
Understanding the Benefits of
Chewable Vitamins
Some
studies did prove that chewable vitamins can erode the enamel or the outer
covering of the teeth. Everyone knows that erosion of teeth can lead to
needing dental crowns and bridges – a huge
expenditure. Still, chewable vitamins are readily available in the market. So
it must have some benefits.
The
parents wish their kids to have all the necessary vitamins and minerals, and
the kids will prefer a tasty candy over fruits and vegetables. You do not have
to argue with your little one or force-feed them.
Chewable
vitamins or gummy bears are the best choices for children who would not or
cannot swallow whole pills. They can chew the candies and swallow them with
zero hassle or risks of choking.
Finally,
yet importantly, gummy bears do not actually provide necessary vitamins such as
A, B, C, D, and E, as well as zinc and calcium. These fill in the gaps that
your kid’s normal diet may have.
The
usual diet in most of places lacks certain vitamins. A supplement appears to be
an easy way of getting the missing nutrients. If the supplement is in the form
of sweet candy, it is even better. The kids would happily take them and ask for
more.
Time for the Other Side of the Coin
The
fact that children want more gummy bears is a warning sign. Covering a nutritional
supplement in delicious and sticky sugars has a fair share of disadvantages.
Major ones among the lot include:
·
Tooth
Decay
Although
the kids generally take two to four supplements each day, the sugar they
contain has the power to feed the bacteria. The sugar in the chewable vitamins
sticks to the teeth, paving the way for decay, plaque, and bacterial growth.
·
Weak
than the Normal Multivitamins
Gummy
bears are less potent than normal multivitamins. Some doctors believe they do
more harm than good. They make the kids addicted to sugar.
·
Overdose
Too much sugar in kids’
vitamins increases the chances to overdose. Certain
companies are cautious not to include the ingredients that can be harmful if
consumed in excess. Others not that much. There are plenty cases of the parents
taking their kids to the emergency room because the latter have downed the
entire bottle.
The
disadvantages of chewable vitamins are quite substantial. Incorporating
nutrients in candy may not be the worst idea but unfortunately, not the best
one either.
What You Must Do
If
your kids are already eating chewable vitamins, there are a couple of ways to
alleviate the risks. Try to include these vitamins after the meals and not s some
treat. Also, encourage your kids to practice good oral hygiene habits. If they
brush their teeth thoroughly and floss, no amount of candy can cause any harm.
