Posted by Brianna Maguire on Nov 13th 2020
Your children’s health should always be a priority. That’s we offer a number of pediatric supplements, designed to fill any gaps in your child’s nutrition. Whether your child has severe food allergies, difficulty swallowing, or is just a little behind in their growth, our supplements have what they need to get back on track.
Pediatric supplements are special powders and drinks made with the essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and electrolytes that children need to grow and thrive. Unlike adult nutritional supplements, pediatric supplements focus on what kids need most. That’s why they typically include more calcium and less protein than adult drinks.
Pediatric supplements can help kids grow in weight or height, supply advanced hydration, or provide a little extra bump of nutrition for kids that have allergies or sensitive tummies.
There are many kinds of pediatric supplements, because there are many kinds of kids! The main supplements we offer are:
Nutrition drinks, like PediaSure
Nutritional drinks are used to help kids grow! Packed with vitamins, minerals, omega-3, protein, and lots more, these drinks provide the extra boost your kids need to feel happy and healthy.
Electrolyte Replenishers, like Pedialyte
Drinks that replenish electrolytes are great for advanced hydration. These are ideal for children that have been ill, or that need extra hydration (like after a long day outside or at a theme park!).
Amino Acid Based Foods, like EleCare Jr.
These supplements come in a powder form and are designed to provide nutrition for children that have severe food allergies, damaged GI tracts, or need a primary source of nutrition. Note that this should only be used if doctor-recommended.
Each kind of pediatric supplement is used for a different reason, so be sure to consult the individual product descriptions when making your decision.
In general, pediatric supplements are ideal for:
Nutritional shakes like PediaSure are ideal for:
Drinks like Pedialyte are best for:
Medical foods like EleCare are ideal for children:
Pediatric supplements may not be a good choice for:
Whether you should use a liquid or powdered version of a supplement is mostly up to your personal preference, but there are some guidelines that can help you decide. Keep in mind that some supplements only come in liquid or powdered form.
The most important rule when it comes to pediatric supplements is to use them as the package recommends, and as your doctor recommends.
You can use pediatric supplements:
You should not use pediatric supplements:
Pediatric supplements come in many delicious flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and fruit. Many of the supplements are unflavored, for little ones with particular tastes, or to make it easier to incorporate into other foods and beverages.
Some supplements will include “electrolytes.” These are key if you’re looking for advanced hydration or to recover from an illness.
Powdered options are ideal for those that want to mix their supplements themselves (so they can control portions, put the supplement into a food or beverage of their choice, or enjoy a longer shelf life).
“Ready to drink” formulas are conveniently pre-mixed, so you can just grab a bottle and go.
Most of our pediatric supplements are lactose-free, making them a great choice for children with lactose intolerance. Check the product description for more information!
Some supplements are “hypoallergenic,” meaning they’re completely safe even for kids with multiple food allergies.
DHA Omega-3 is a fatty acid that helps prevent certain diseases. Since the body doesn’t naturally produce it, and most foods don’t contain omega-3s, it’s important to look for it in a nutritional supplement.
Each pediatric supplement has a unique range of vitamins and minerals, so be sure to check the product descriptions when dedicating which is best for you or your child.
Some supplements can be used as the only form of nutrition, if your child doesn’t eat at all. Be sure to consult your doctor when making these selections.
Most pediatric supplements don’t have a lot of fiber, so if your child isn’t getting enough from their food, you’ll want to check the fiber levels from product to product. Fiber is critical for digestive health!
In general, protein isn’t as important for kids as it is for adults (calcium is more important). However, it can help with weight and muscle gain. Be sure to check with your doctor about the amount of protein your child should consume daily!
Most of our pediatric supplements are gluten-free, Kosher, and Halal.
Choosing a pediatric supplement is largely up to your doctor, so be sure you consult them before making your decision.
In general, though, which pediatric supplement is right for you depends on why you’re looking for a supplement in the first place.
In this case, the best option is a nutritious shake like PediaSure Grow and Gain.
In this case, you should look for an electrolyte replenishment option, like Pedialyte.
In this case, a supplement like EleCare Jr. is best, though it should never be used without first consulting a doctor.
If you’re still confused, just give us a call at 855-855-1666 or email us at support@carewell.com
Our caregivers love nutrition drinks and shakes from brands like PediaSure, EleCare Jr, Pedialyte, and Carnation.
Whether your child is ill, out in the sun too long, or just not getting enough water, Pedialyte provides advanced hydration and electrolytes.
1. If your child has trouble drinking supplements, try freezing it into a popsicle!
2. When your child is ill, it can be hard for them to rehydrate, even with unflavored Pedialyte. The key is to take just small sips, whatever they can handle. Keep in mind that Pedialyte is also a great option for adults that need more hydration!
