According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nutrition plays an essential role in the normal functioning of the immune system. Among the necessary micronutrients, vitamins A, D, and zinc are considered vital nutrients that participate in many of the body's natural defense mechanisms, contributing to healthy development in children's early years.

Children in their developmental years need adequate nutrient supply. Photo: Vecteezy

Vitamin A is known for its role in supporting vision and growth. This nutrient also helps maintain the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes in the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts. These mucous membranes act as a "first line of defense," limiting the entry of bacteria, viruses, and environmental pathogens.

Vitamin A also participates in the activity of many immune cells. According to UNICEF, vitamin A deficiency can affect immunity and increase the risk of infectious diseases in children. Therefore, providing adequate amounts of this nutrient through the daily diet is an important part of pediatric healthcare.

Alongside vitamin A, vitamin D has garnered increasing attention due to its role in regulating immune activity. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vitamin D supports the body's fight against bacteria and viruses and participates in many other important physiological functions.

Numerous studies indicate that immune cells possess vitamin D receptors. This suggests that the nutrient is not only linked to bone health but also contributes to regulating the body's immune responses. However, children today often spend more time studying indoors, which reduces their opportunity for sun exposure—the body's natural source for vitamin D synthesis.

While vitamins A and D support protective barriers and immune regulation, zinc is a mineral directly involved in many vital cellular activities. According to WHO, zinc plays a role in growth, cell division, protein synthesis, and maintaining normal immune function. Zinc participates in the development and activity of many types of immune cells. Prolonged dietary zinc deficiency can affect a child's growth, overall health, and immune response.

Children grow healthy and tall with sufficient essential nutrients. Photo: Vecteezy

To meet nutritional needs during development, experts recommend that children have a diverse diet rich in vitamins A, D, and zinc, including foods like meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products, seafood, dark green vegetables, and yellow-orange fruits and vegetables. Additionally, regular physical activity and appropriate sun exposure also contribute to the body's synthesis of vitamin D.

However, many children experience picky eating or selective eating habits, making it challenging to meet their full micronutrient needs from their daily diet. This is why many parents are considering nutritional supplements to help complete their children's dietary intake.

Meiji Kids Formula supplement for children aged three to 10 years. Photo: Meiji

Alongside a diverse diet, specially formulated nutritional products for children are a choice many families consider. Among these, Meiji Kids Formula, designed for children aged three to 10 years, is developed with a nutrient system including vitamins A, D, and zinc—micronutrients involved in many of the body's important immune mechanisms.

In addition to the immune-supporting nutrients, the product also contains DHA, calcium, iron, and Meiji's Prebiotics FOS, which contribute to physical, brain, and digestive system development. According to the manufacturer, consuming 400 ml of Meiji Kids Formula daily can provide 100% of the recommended calcium and iron for children aged three to six years.

The product is developed based on the nutritional needs of school-age children who are active, offering parents an additional option for their children's daily nutrient supplementation.

Hai My

For detailed product information, refer to Meiji Kids Formula.