Are Multivitamins Necessary for Kids? What Experts Say in 2025

Walk down any supplement aisle and you’ll see dozens of brightly colored bottles promising better immunity, stronger bones, and healthier growth. But are multivitamins actually necessary for kids? In 2025, the expert consensus is clearer than ever: most healthy kids do not need a daily multivitamin if they’re eating a balanced diet.

Still, there are exceptions. Some kiddos may benefit from targeted supplementation, especially if they’re selective eaters, have dietary restrictions, or have been diagnosed with a nutrient deficiency.

Here’s what the latest research and recommendations say.

What Multivitamins Are Designed to Do

Multivitamins were created to fill nutritional gaps. For kids, this often means including nutrients like:

• Vitamin D

• Vitamin A

• Vitamin C

• B vitamins

• Iron

• Zinc

• Iodine

Many formulas also now include omega-3s or probiotics, though not all forms are well-absorbed or clinically backed.

In theory, a multivitamin helps ensure your little one gets all the nutrients they need for healthy growth. But in practice, many kids already get sufficient amounts through food—especially when meals include a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein.

What Pediatric Experts Say in 2025

According to theAmerican Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most healthy kids do not need a multivitamin. Instead, pediatricians emphasize building habits around whole foods, family meals, and exposure to a variety of nutrients through diet.

Still, certain kiddos may benefit from a multivitamin or targeted nutrient supplements, especially if they:

• Eat a highly selective or limited diet

• Avoid entire food groups (like dairy or meat)

• Have certain medical conditions affecting nutrient absorption

• Live in areas with low sunlight exposure (which can affect vitamin D levels)

Pediatricians and registered dietitians often recommend testing before supplementing, especially with nutrients like iron and vitamin D.

When Multivitamins May Be Helpful

Some examples where a multivitamin may be beneficial:

• Picky eaters: If your kiddo regularly skips whole food groups, a multivitamin may act as an insurance policy

• Vegan or vegetarian diets: These may require B12, iron, or omega-3 support

• Low vitamin D levels: Common in northern climates or among kids with darker skin tones

• Poor appetite due to illness or medication: Temporary supplementation may help during recovery

Still, not all multivitamins are created equal. Some contain synthetic forms of vitamins, excess fillers, or megadoses that can do more harm than good.

The Gut Health Connection

A healthy gut supports better nutrient absorption, which is why Begin Health focuses on foundational gut nutrition through products likeGrowing Up Prebiotics. If your little one is constipated or bloated, they may not be absorbing nutrients effectively—even if their diet looks good on paper.

Improving gut motility and microbial balance with prebiotics can support long-term health and reduce the need for unnecessary supplements.

Summary

Multivitamins are not a magic fix, and most healthy kids don’t need one daily. A balanced diet with the right mix of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and micronutrients goes much further than a chewable tablet. For kids with gaps in their diet or special health needs, a targeted supplement may help—but always check with a pediatrician or dietitian before adding one.