Shaped like cartoon characters or baby animals, gummy multivitamins are one way to make sure your child gets vitamins and minerals. They taste good and fill the nutritional gaps in the diet. They sound like a win!
And they are, as long as they’re taken correctly.
As you can imagine, this is one supplement that a young child looks forward to in the morning. Often, kids pick the color, flavor, or shape for the day. Still, children can be indecisive. Even though your little one may have wanted the cherry-flavored red star when given the opportunity, they may decide later that they really want the grape-flavored purple moon.
When your back is turned, your child may go to the cabinet to look for the purple moon.
Gummy vitamins are a substance that many parents and caregivers aren’t too worried about — and with good reason. Most gummy vitamins are not a cause for concern, even if your child has an extra vitamin or two.
However, large quantities of gummy vitamins can cause medical issues for a child.
What Parents Should Know About Gummy Vitamin Risks
While vitamins are generally a positive thing, it’s important to be aware of all the risks to best care for your child.
Overdosing
Unlike food, vitamins contain concentrated nutrients, and too much of a good thing can be dangerous. Iron, vitamin A, and other fat-soluble vitamins can be toxic in large amounts.
The iron in the vitamins can cause iron poisoning, which is a serious concern, especially in a small child. Initially, excess iron causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Large amounts of iron can cause liver and other organ damage.
The Wisconsin Poison Center (WPC) annual report found that vitamins are one of the top 10 substances involved in poisonings in children ages 5 and younger.
Harm Teeth
Most gummy vitamins contain sugar or sweeteners that can stick to your child’s teeth. Over time, this can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially if your little one struggles with brushing thoroughly or regularly.
Children with sensory sensitivities or motor skill delays may struggle with oral hygiene, making sugar-coated vitamins even riskier.
Choking
For young children, especially babies and toddlers, gummy vitamins can be a choking risk. Their chewy, sticky texture makes them difficult for some children to handle, especially if they have delays or difficulty chewing and swallowing.
How Many Gummy Vitamins Are Too Many?
As noted, gummy vitamins aren’t inherently bad. In fact, you want your little one to get the nutrients they need for their growing body. If you plan to give your child gummy vitamins, the important thing is to be smart and safe. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Talk With Your Child
The best way to prevent potential problems or overdosing is to educate your child that there is a danger in taking more than one vitamin per day. Make sure your child knows they are not candy and should not be viewed as a “treat,” even if they taste good.
Avoid associating the vitamins with words like “treat,” “candy,” “dessert,” or “snack,” which can confuse young kids.
Keep Vitamins Out of Reach
Handle the vitamins the same way as any medication. Keep them up high and away from children. Keep in mind that older children are very curious and can climb, so a locked medicine cabinet is a smart idea.
Make It Part of the Routine
Taking the gummy vitamins as part of your daily routine, such as bedtime or dinner, your child starts to learn when they’re supposed to take them. This helps set expectations and provide clarity.
A consistent time and process helps minimize the risk of accidentally administering the vitamins more than once. It also sets boundaries when your child has a temper tantrum and begs for another flavor or color (“You can have that one tomorrow.”)
A set routine also makes it easier to remember to follow up with a good rinse or brushing to minimize potential damage to their teeth.
Supervise Your Child
Always supervise your child when giving vitamins, just like you would during a meal or bath time. Even if they’ve taken the gummies before, don’t assume there isn’t a choking risk.
Consider Alternatives
If your child seems to struggle with the gummies, consider alternative vitamin forms like liquids, powders, or chewable tablets designed for younger ages. It’s also important for your child to get a well-rounded and age-appropriate diet with proper nutrients.
Use Visuals
Consider using some sort of sticker or symbol on the bottle to indicate to your child not to touch it, such as a red X or a Mr. Yuk sticker.
Even if your little one can’t read, they may be able to recognize these visual cues. If you’ve had discussions explaining what the symbol means, it may deter them from getting into the vitamin bottle when you’re not looking.
What Should I Do If My Child Ate Too Many Gummy Vitamins?
If you suspect vitamin overdosing or any exposure, call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222. They are open 24/7 for fast, free, confidential service.
