Do children need a multivitamin?

The official position on vitamin D

UK guidance recommends a daily supplement containing vitamin D for all children aged one to four, all year round. From age five, everyone in the UK is advised to consider a daily vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter, because sunlight at our latitude is too weak between October and March.

That advice is not controversial and it is not commercial — it comes from the NHS.

Where the gaps usually are

A varied diet covers most nutrients for most children. The common shortfalls in the UK are vitamin D, iron, and in fussy eaters, vitamin A and zinc. A multivitamin is sensible insurance in those cases — it is not a replacement for meals.

If your child is persistently tired or pale, ask your GP about a blood test rather than guessing with supplements.

Using them safely

One tablet daily, and do not exceed it. More is not better with fat-soluble vitamins, which accumulate in the body.

Keep any supplement well out of reach. This is a food supplement and not a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle — if your child takes medication, check with a pharmacist first.

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Important: this article is general well-being information, not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medication or managing a health condition, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before changing anything.

Last reviewed: 12 June 2026 by the Mundo Fit Natural practitioner team. We review our articles at least once a year.