[Use of natural vitamin supplements in children during convalescence and in children with athletic activities].

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Sporting activities and periods of convalescence call for an added intake of nutrients in children. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a natural vitamin supplement on diet, food intake, body composition and muscular strength in children during convalescence and in children practising sports.

METHODS

A comparative study was performed in two different groups of subjects: 20 children aged between 6 and 12 years old during convalescence following infections of upper airways, and 20 9-year-old children forming part of a football team. All subjects were randomly subdivided into two groups who were respectively given a vitamin supplement (Vitality Roeder 2000 Junior) or a placebo for 4 weeks. Weight, body composition using and muscolar strength using dynamometer measured before and after the study and a food diary was kept for 3 days before each visit.

RESULTS

No significant differences in body mass and strength emerged from the data collected in the athletic group, whereas an increase was observed in appetite, calorie intake, weight and muscular strength in the convalescent group (p < 0.05). A significant increase in vitamin B12, B3, B5 and D levels was observed in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The supplement to provides an adequate intake for those categories at risk of vitamin deficiency or in conditions of increased requirements.