7 Recommendations
Vitamin D3
strongSupports immune function, bone growth, mood, and brain development via vitamin D receptors throughout the brain.
Test levels before high-dose supplementation. Toxicity possible above 4,000 IU/day without monitoring.
DHA / Omega-3
strongEssential structural component of brain cell membranes. Supports attention, language development, and processing speed.
FormFlavored liquid or gummies
Use third-party tested products (IFOS certified). May cause fishy aftertaste. Allergy risk for children with fish allergy.
Magnesium
strongSupports GABA function, sleep quality, calm behavior, and stress resilience. Over 300 enzymatic reactions depend on Mg.
FormGlycinate powder in food
Glycinate or threonate forms preferred over oxide (better absorbed). High doses may cause loose stools.
Probiotics
moderateSupports the gut-brain axis, immune development, and microbiome diversity. Directly influences brain via vagus nerve.
DoseL. reuteri strain-specific
Use strains with pediatric research data (L. rhamnosus, B. longum). Probiotics may contain dairy allergens.
Iron
strongEssential for oxygen transport, myelination, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Deficiency directly impairs cognitive development.
ONLY supplement if deficient. Excess iron is harmful. Screen at 9–12 months. Test, don't guess.
Zinc
strongSupports immune function, neurotransmitter production, and dopamine signaling for attention.
Don't exceed UL (12 mg/day ages 4–8, 23 mg/day ages 9–13). Balance with copper at ~15:1 ratio for long-term use.
Melatonin
moderateHormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Can help with sleep onset in children with circadian disruption.
Dose0.5–1 mg (30 min before bed)
Use lowest effective dose. Not for long-term nightly use without doctor supervision. Address sleep hygiene first. Unregulated — purity varies widely.