[Importance and supply of micronutrients in infants, children and adolescents]

An optimal supply of micronutrients is particularly important for infants, children and adolescents and is ensured by an age-appropriate, balanced and varied diet. Data on the nutrient intake of these age groups is provided by nationwide nutrition surveys such as the "Children's Nutrition Survey to Record Food Consumption" (KiESEL) and the "Eating Study as a KiGGS Module" (EsKiMo II). These studies show that a considerable proportion of children and adolescents in Germany do not have an adequate supply of important micronutrients such as calcium, iron, iodine and vitamin D. Although dietary supplements are frequently used, they are only useful in the case of a proven deficiency and should only be taken after consulting a physician in order to avoid overdosing. Supplementation of individual nutrients (fluoride, vitamin D, vitamin K) is regularly recommended during well-child visits in infancy and early childhood. Targeted supplementation may also be necessary for certain chronic diseases or special diets. Intensified public health measures such as the promotion of healthy food in daycare centres and schools are necessary in order to improve the supply of important micronutrients. In addition, a continuous nutrition monitoring in children and adolescents-as is currently being established at the Max Rubner-Institut-is essential to detect changes in the nutrient intake and to counteract deficiencies in a targeted manner.