Milk has long been considered one of the most essential sources of nutrition for children, yet many Malaysian kids are not drinking enough of it. Studies show that milk is not even among the top three preferred drinks for school children1. This is even more alarming as children between the ages of 1 to 12 years are in their peak growth years (see Figure 1), making proper nutrition more critical than ever. Without enough essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, children may face stunted growth and weaker bones that could affect their overall well-being2. Ensuring they get the right nutrition during this crucial stage is key for a healthy growth.

Calcium, often called the "building block of bones," is one of the most important minerals for growing children. It plays a critical role in the formation and maintenance of strong bones and teeth3. However, because the human body cannot produce calcium on its own, it must come from food sources, and milk is one of the richest and easiest ways to get it. Unfortunately, with declining milk consumption, many children are not getting the calcium they need.

But calcium alone is not enough. Magnesium and Vitamin D also play a key role in bone development. Magnesium helps the body absorb and retain calcium, ensuring that it can be effectively used to strengthen bones4. Meanwhile, Vitamin D is responsible for helping the body absorb both calcium and phosphorus, two minerals essential for proper bone structure5. The best natural source of Vitamin D is sunlight exposure, but with more children spending time indoors on electronic devices, they may not be getting enough. To ensure children get the right nutrients for healthy growth, parents should encourage them to drink at least two glasses of milk daily.

However, for children who do not like milk or cannot consume enough, there is an easy and convenient solution, Appeton Multivitamin Optigrow Plus Tablet. This chewable tablet is specially formulated with calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, ensuring children receive the essential nutrients needed for strong bones and teeth. Suitable for children aged one year and above, this supplement helps bridge nutritional gap, particularly for those who do not drink enough milk or are lactose intolerant.

At the end of the day, every parent wants to see their child grow up strong, active, and full of energy. By incorporating Appeton Multivitamin Optigrow Plus tablet into their child’s daily routine alongside a balanced diet, parents can have peace of mind knowing their little ones are getting the right nutrients to support their growth and overall well-being. After all, strong bones today lay the foundation for a healthier, brighter future tomorrow!

Learn more: APPETON MULTIVITAMIN OPTIGROW PLUS TABLET

References:

1. Babolian Hendijani, Roozbeh & Ab Karim, Muhammad. (2010). Factors affecting milk consumption among school children in urban and rural areas of Selangor, Malaysia. International Food Research Journal. 17. 651-660
2. Office of the Surgeon General (US). Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General. Rockville (MD): Office of the Surgeon General (US); 2004. 6, Determinants of Bone Health. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK45503/
3. Pandey, Govind. (2011). Role of calcium in human and animal health. 5. 61-65.
4. Rondanelli M, Faliva MA, Tartara A, Gasparri C, Perna S, Infantino V, Riva A, Petrangolini G, Peroni G. An update on magnesium and bone health. Biometals. 2021 Aug;34(4):715-736. doi: 10.1007/s10534-021-00305-0. Epub 2021 May 6. PMID: 33959846; PMCID: PMC8313472.
5. Khazai N, Judd SE, Tangpricha V. Calcium and vitamin D: skeletal and extraskeletal health. Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2008 Apr;10(2):110-7. doi: 10.1007/s11926-008-0020-y. PMID: 18460265; PMCID: PMC2669834.