Child on fruit island reaching for multivitamin sun.

Are Your Kids Getting Enough? The Truth About Micronutrients in Puerto Rico

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Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"New study reveals surprising gaps in children's diets and the role of supplements in bridging the nutritional divide."


Micronutrients are the unsung heroes of children's health, playing a vital role in growth, development, and overall well-being. From supporting immune function to building strong bones, these vitamins and minerals are essential for laying a solid foundation for a healthy life. However, ensuring children receive adequate micronutrients can be a challenge, especially with today's busy lifestyles and evolving dietary habits.

In Puerto Rico, a recent study shed light on the micronutrient intake of 12-year-old children, revealing some surprising gaps in their diets. The research, published in the International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition Research, examined the dietary habits and supplement use of a representative sample of children across the island. The findings underscore the importance of understanding children’s nutritional needs and the potential role of multivitamin-multimineral (MVMM) supplements in addressing deficiencies.

This article delves into the key findings of this study, exploring the specific micronutrient deficiencies identified and the impact of MVMM supplements on children's overall nutrient intake. We'll break down the complex data into easy-to-understand insights, providing parents and caregivers with the information they need to make informed decisions about their children's nutrition.

Key Findings: Unveiling the Micronutrient Deficiencies

Child on fruit island reaching for multivitamin sun.

The study, led by researchers at the University of Puerto Rico and the University of Massachusetts Medical School, involved a detailed analysis of the dietary habits and supplement use of 732 children. The researchers used 24-hour dietary recalls to assess the children's intake of various micronutrients from food and beverages. They also gathered information on the use of MVMM supplements, including the brands and dosages.

The results revealed that a significant number of children were not meeting the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for several essential micronutrients. Specifically, the mean intakes of vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as pantothenic acid, calcium, and magnesium, were below the recommended levels. These findings highlight a potential widespread deficiency of these nutrients among children in Puerto Rico.

  • Vitamins A, D, E, and K: Crucial for immune function, vision, bone health, and blood clotting.
  • Pantothenic Acid: Supports energy production and metabolism.
  • Calcium and Magnesium: Essential for bone growth, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
Interestingly, the study also found that boys generally had higher intakes of most minerals than girls. This aligns with previous research suggesting that boys tend to consume more food overall, leading to a greater intake of nutrients. However, both boys and girls fell short of the recommended levels for certain micronutrients.

Moving Forward: Addressing the Micronutrient Gap

The study's findings underscore the need for public health initiatives aimed at improving micronutrient intake among children in Puerto Rico. These initiatives should focus on promoting balanced diets rich in nutrient-dense foods, as well as educating parents and caregivers on the appropriate use of dietary supplements.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

Everything You Need To Know

1

What are micronutrients and why are they so important for children's health?

Micronutrients are essential vitamins and minerals that support various aspects of children's health, including immune function, bone strength, and overall development. They are vital because they help lay the foundation for a healthy life. Without adequate intake of micronutrients, children may face developmental and health challenges.

2

What specific micronutrient deficiencies were identified in the study of children in Puerto Rico?

The study revealed that many children were not meeting the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as pantothenic acid, calcium, and magnesium. These deficiencies can impair immune function, vision, bone health, energy production, and nerve transmission, all of which are critical for growing children.

3

How can multivitamin-multimineral supplements help children who are not getting enough micronutrients from their diet?

Multivitamin-multimineral (MVMM) supplements can play a significant role in bridging the nutritional gap when children's diets do not provide sufficient micronutrients. These supplements provide a concentrated dose of essential vitamins and minerals, helping to ensure that children meet their daily requirements. However, they should complement, not replace, a balanced diet.

4

Did the study find any differences in micronutrient intake between boys and girls?

The study found that boys generally had higher intakes of most minerals compared to girls, aligning with the understanding that boys often consume more food overall. However, both boys and girls still fell short of the recommended levels for certain micronutrients, indicating that targeted interventions are needed for both genders.

5

What can be done to address the micronutrient deficiencies identified in the study?

To address micronutrient deficiencies, public health initiatives should focus on promoting balanced diets rich in nutrient-dense foods and educating parents and caregivers about the appropriate use of dietary supplements. These efforts are essential to improve children's overall nutrient intake and support their healthy growth and development. Future studies could explore the reasons behind the dietary gaps and the long-term impacts of these deficiencies.

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