Modern children may not be getting all of the vitamins and minerals they need to be healthy. According to the National Library of Medicine, nutrient deficiencies of iron, vitamin A, folic acid, and zinc are prevalent worldwide, especially in children from low income areas. Many modern kids do not consume sufficient amounts of nutrients that are vital for growth. For example, CNBC reports that kids are not getting enough fiber and potassium. But the No. 1 nutrient that kids, particularly those in the United States, aren’t getting enough of is vitamin D. Fifty percent of children between the ages of one and five and 70 percent of those ages six to 11 have a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is largely produced through exposure to the sun, and sedentary kids may not be getting enough time outdoors. Kidsville Pediatrics also says modern kids are deficient in vitamins A, C, B12, and E. Parents can talk to their children’s pediatricians about how best to address nutrient deficiencies, particularly among children who may be picky eaters.
