Free vitamins plan for mothers and children
PREGNANT women and chil- dren under five may soon get free vitamin supplements.
The move is being considered by the Scottish Government as part of a drastic effort to improve health rates among youngsters.
The scheme would see tens of thousands of women get tablets with vitamins C and D and folic acid, which can prevent birth defects.
Young children would get free drops containing vitamins A, C and D.
Yesterday, the Scottish Government said it was carrying out a ‘review’ of its provision of vitamins.
A study published in the British Medical Journal last week found widespread support for free vitamins among health professionals. Dr Alison McFadden of the School of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Dundee, who led the study, said: ‘Free vitamins are only available to women and children who are in receipt of qualifying benefits.
‘The uptake is quite low and there is generally low awareness of the importance of vitamin D. Studies show a significant proportion of people are low in vitamin D.
‘Pregnant and breastfeeding women are a high-risk group because if they are low in vitamin D, it is likely their babies will be too, putting them at risk of convulsions and rickets.
‘Health professionals are saying that the way to get over barriers is to make vitamins available free to all pregnant women and children under the age of five.’
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: ‘Our review, with recommendations being pre- sented in a report by March 2015, will consider research evidence, including the recent BMJ findings, to help inform the future vitamin distribution model for Scotland.’
But Cathy Court of parenting website Netmums said: ‘Taking supplements may be a quick fix to give mums and kids vitamins, but it doesn’t set up healthy eating habits for life.
‘Instead of paying for pricey vitamins, taxpayers’ cash would be better spent helping show families how to shop well and cook a natural diet with the vitamins and minerals they need.’