Elke Dag Junior is a chewable tablet in the shape of an elephant with strawberry flavour, specially developed for children aged 3 and over. The product is composed based on the most recent scientific insights, based on current data regarding the nutritional status in the Netherlands and the optimal intake amounts per nutrient. Elke Dag Junior excels in composition, dosage and absorbability. The chewable tablet contains almost all the same high-quality substances as Elke Dag for adults, but the dosages are adapted to the needs of (young) children. For example, one tablet contains no less than 15 μg of vitamin D3 (separate vitamin D drops are therefore no longer necessary). And it contains 60 mg of magnesium and 120 mg of calcium, from a natural source. In short, Elke Dag Junior will easily stand up to comparison with other children's multivitamins!

Sweetener from natural source
The excipients used also determine whether it is a high-quality multi. Most children's multis in the form of chewable tablets consist largely of sugars or artificial sweeteners to improve the taste. Elke Dag Junior is mainly sweetened with steviol glycosides from the stevia plant, and now also partly with erythritol. This is a natural sweetener that occurs in, for example, fruit, mushrooms and cheese. It has no caloric value and is largely absorbed in the small intestine and almost completely excreted via the urine. It has no effect on the blood sugar level and is not bad for the teeth or oral health. A very nice alternative to sugar or other unwanted (artificial) sweeteners!

Taste approved by kids
The taste of Elke Dag Junior chewable tablets is positively assessed by children. It is not a candy of course, but most children like it.

B vitamins in optimal forms and dosages
The Elke Dag multis contain ample but responsible amounts of B vitamins. In doing so, the daily needs and what the average intakes and their lower limits are have been carefully considered. This also takes into account the extent to which the body is able to convert the various B vitamins, the latest scientific insights and the safe upper limits.

All formulas also contain the biologically active forms of vitamin B2 (riboflavin-5'-phosphate), B6 ​​(pyridoxal-5'-phosphate), B12 (methyl- and adenosylcobalamin) and folic acid (5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt). These are the forms as used by the body and research shows that they have a higher bioavailability in the body.

Vitamin B6 as pyridoxal-5'-phosphate
Very high doses of vitamin B6 can occasionally lead to tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. That is why in the Netherlands a maximum safe upper limit of 21 mg per day is used for vitamin preparations for adults. The Elke Dag multis remain well below that (maximum 4.2 mg). In addition, only pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (P-5'-P) is used, the biologically active form of vitamin B6, and not pyridoxine-HCl, which still has to be converted in the body. Further research is currently being conducted to determine whether the above-mentioned occasional side effects only occur with vitamin B6 in the form of pyridoxine-HCl and not, or to a lesser extent, with pyridoxal-5'-phosphate. There are indications that only pyridoxine-HCl is toxic to nerve cells in high doses.

Folic acid as 5-methyltetrahydrofolate
Folic acid (pteroylmonoglutamic acid), which is often used in food supplements for stability, is a synthetic form that does not occur naturally. In food, it occurs as folate. Folic acid from supplements must be converted by the body into tetrahydrofolate and then into 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). Research shows that this complex conversion process is far from optimal in a significant group of people. Supplementation with 5-MTHF circumvents this problem.

The Elke Dag multis use the superior form 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, bound to glucosamine salt (branded Quatrefolic®). This binding with glucosamine salt (from a plant source) makes it possible to keep the biologically active form stable and ensures optimal absorption. Studies show that Quatrefolic® has a higher water solubility, stability and bioavailability. In addition, 5-MTHF is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, unlike the 'normal' (synthetic) form of folic acid.

Vitamin B12 as methyl- and adenosylcobalamin
The absorption of vitamin B12 from food is a complex process. In addition, there are indications that the RI (formerly RDA) of 2.5 µg per day has been underestimated and the need of healthy adults and the elderly can vary and amount to more than 20 µg per day. Due to the safety of vitamin B12 supplementation and the sometimes difficult absorption of B12 from food and supplements, the Elke Dag multis contain generous doses, in the biologically active forms methyl- and adenosylcobalamin.

Many other B12 products and multis contain cyanocobalamin, which is a cheaper, synthetic form of vitamin B12 that does not occur naturally and must be converted by the body into the active forms. In this process, the cyanide part is detached from the cobalamin (B12) and must then be cleared by the body. Studies also show that vitamin B12 in the form of methyl- and adenosylcobalamin has a higher bioavailability than cyanocobalamin.

Generous doses of vitamin D, from plant sources
European government agencies have determined in recent years that the level for an adequate intake of vitamin D from food should be higher (15 µg) and that the maximum permitted dosage could be increased (100 µg). In the Netherlands, they are still cautious and indicate that 10 µg is sufficient and that the maximum amount is 75 µg. The RI (or RDA) has strangely enough remained at 5 µg. But in the orthomolecular world, the importance of higher dosages has been known for some time. Leading vitamin D experts advise that the vitamin D level (calcidiol level) of adults should be at least 75 nmol/l. To maintain such a vitamin D level, an oral dose of vitamin D3 of an estimated 25-75 µg per day is needed.

The Elke Dag multis contain generous doses of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). This form is much more effective than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) in increasing vitamin D levels. In addition, the new Elke Dag multis use plant-based vitamin D3 (Vitamin D3V®). This is because it is produced from algae, and not from sheep's wool fat (like the vast majority of vitamin D3 products). This means that all multis in the Elke Dag series are now also suitable for vegans.

Vitamin K1 and K2
The Elke Dag multis now also contain a small amount of vitamin K1, in addition to a higher dosage of vitamin K2. Vitamin K1 is mainly absorbed by the liver and mainly ensures the activation of clotting factors, while vitamin K2 has a greater biological availability, is distributed much more over the body tissues and is therefore more effective in activating other vitamin K-dependent enzymes such as osteocalcin and MGP. These ensure, among other things, that calcium is properly absorbed and ends up in the right place, namely in the bones.

The body will always use vitamin K first for the vital blood clotting function. Because vitamin K2 is a much more expensive raw material than vitamin K1, a small amount of K1 is added to the multis so that it can be used for the priority blood clotting function and the K2 can be used for the other, very important functions.

The regularly established RI for vitamin K is based on the amount needed for normal blood clotting. Oddly enough, the optimal dosage of vitamin K when it comes to other vitamin K-dependent body processes has not been considered.

Stability of vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 appears to be a very sensitive substance. Especially in combination with calcium and/or magnesium, the content of this vitamin in a tablet or capsule decreases rapidly. Using vitamin K2 in a product with high doses of calcium and/or magnesium is technically a real challenge. Vitals therefore uses a K2 ingredient with the brand name K2Vital® Delta, which is even stable in a formula with many of these minerals. A patented micro-encapsulation process is used, in which the fat-soluble K2 particles are protected with two layers against interaction with other ingredients. Vitals has had the stability of K2Vital® Delta tested in an independent laboratory and it came out best in the test. It was compared with other brands of vitamin K2, specifically in combination with the ingredients used in Vitals products. The conclusions were that protecting the K2 is absolutely necessary, that the K2 content remained well stable with K2Vital® Delta, and that it was superior to the other K2 ingredients.

Natural calcium and magnesium from the sea
The multis use calcium and magnesium from the brand Aquamin®, originating from the sea. In the multi, much higher dosages are achieved than with previously used forms of connection, while the absorption of these ingredients has been proven to be good.

The magnesium (Aquamin Magnesium) is obtained from the seawater of the Irish Sea, and studies show that it is well absorbed in the body. In addition to approximately 35% elemental magnesium, the raw material also contains small amounts of other minerals and trace elements.

The calcium (Aquamin Calcium) comes from a red algae called Lithothamnium calcareum. This type of algae absorbs minerals and trace elements from the sea and stores them. When alive, it has a beautiful red/pink color, but when it dies, it calcifies and turns white or light gray. Only calcified red algae is harvested, from the waters along the coast of Iceland. In addition to 32% calcium, the raw material also contains 3% magnesium and small amounts of other minerals and trace elements.

The synergistic effect of the natural trace element profile of this calcium and magnesium may partly explain the improved absorption and the impressive studies that have been conducted with it.

Iron, zinc, copper and manganese as amino acid chelate (bisglycinate)
Amino acid chelates (bisglycinates) were chosen for the minerals iron, zinc, copper and manganese. In these, each mineral particle is strongly bound (chelated) to two molecules of the amino acid glycine. Minerals in this form of bond reach the small intestine well and are very well absorbed. They are also mild for the stomach, which can be a great advantage, especially in the case of iron. In addition, Vitals specifically chooses the amino acid chelates of Albion Minerals, recognizable by the trademark TRAACS®, which stands for The Real Amino Acid Chelate System. This brand was created to be able to make a good distinction from other, possibly inferior, unstable amino acid chelates. Albion has registered more than 100 patents worldwide that guarantee the process, science and structure of their amino acid chelated minerals.

Unique: relatively high dose of choline
Choline has been a standard ingredient in multis for a long time. But almost always in low doses (between 10-30 mg). Because not much was known about it. But more and more is known about it now! In 2012, the European Commission approved three health claims for choline, which apply to a dosage of at least 82.5 mg. It is important for normal lipid metabolism, homocysteine ​​metabolism and normal liver function. In 2016, an RDA was established for the first time in America at 550 mg/day, based on clinical research specifically intended to determine the daily requirement. In 2016, the EFSA also ruled that choline is an essential nutrient, but has not yet established an RI. The adequate intake was established at 400 mg/day, based on the average intake in European countries, and not based on the American study that arrived at 550 mg/day. The average intake of adults in Europe fluctuates between 291 and 468 mg/day. Reason enough to include a generous amount of choline in a daily multi!

The Every Day multis contain choline from the brand VitaCholine®. This brand stands for superior quality and has been extensively researched.

Lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin
Lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin are natural carotenoids. In the body, these substances are found in high concentrations in the retina and macula lutea ('yellow spot'). The body cannot produce lutein and zeaxanthin itself, but must obtain them from food. These are found in green leafy vegetables, and red, yellow and orange vegetables and fruits. Meso-zeaxanthin is only found in food to a very limited extent (shrimp, salmon skin, trout skin and meat). It is mainly produced in the retina by converting lutein by means of an enzymatic reaction. It can be supplemented well. Meso-zeaxanthin has been known for a relatively short time that it is a very good supplement, and is preferred over supplementation of only lutein and zeaxanthin.

Permitted health claims:

• Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, biotin, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, iodine, copper and manganese support energy levels
• Vitamin B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, folate, vitamin C, magnesium and iron can help with fatigue
• Vitamin A, B6, B12, folate, vitamin C, D, iron, copper, selenium and zinc have a positive effect on the immune system
• Vitamin B2, C, E, copper, manganese, selenium and zinc protect cells against oxidative damage
• Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, biotin, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iodine and copper support the nervous system
• iron contributes to the normal cognitive development of children
• iodine and zinc contribute to normal cognitive function
• Vitamin B1, B3, B6, B12, biotin, folate, vitamin C and magnesium support mental functions (such as concentration and memory) and mood
• Vitamin B5 and folate contribute to resistance to stress
• Vitamin A, B2 and zinc are good for vision
• Vitamin C, D, K, calcium, manganese and zinc are good for the bones
• Vitamin K contributes to the absorption of calcium in the bones
• vitamin K is necessary for normal blood clotting
• Vitamin C, D and calcium are good for the condition of the teeth
• Biotin, selenium and zinc are good for the condition of the hair
• copper contributes to normal pigmentation of the skin and hair
• Vitamin A, B2, B3, C, biotin, iodine and zinc are good for the condition of the skin
• selenium and zinc are good for the condition of the nails
• iodine contributes to the normal growth of children
• iodine and selenium support normal thyroid function
• vitamin D, calcium and magnesium support muscle function
• vitamin B1 contributes to the normal functioning of the heart
• calcium and vitamin D are needed for normal growth and development of children's bones
• calcium and magnesium play a role in the production of cells and tissues
• calcium helps maintain healthy digestion
• magnesium helps build proteins in the body
• magnesium contributes to a good electrolyte balance
• choline contributes to normal homocysteine ​​metabolism
• choline contributes to the maintenance of the structure of cell membranes and normal lipid metabolism

Sweeteners (erythritol*, steviol glycosides from stevia 98% rebaudioside A), minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, molybdenum, selenium, manganese, copper, iodine), thickener (hydroxypropyl cellulose), vitamins (C, E, B3, B5, D3, K2, B6, B2, B1, A, K1, folate, biotin, B12), rapeseed oil (Brassica napus), natural strawberry flavouring, choline bitartrate, anti-caking agents (calcium salts of fatty acids, silicon dioxide), colour (beetroot red), acidity regulator (citric acid), citrus bioflavonoid complex, mixed tocopherols, lutein, meso-zeaxanthin, Dunaliella salina, zeaxanthin.

With sweeteners (erythritol* and steviol glycosides from stevia). Excessive use may have a laxative effect.

* Erythritol is a virtually calorie-free sweetener that occurs naturally in some fruits and certain fermented foods. It is produced through a natural fermentation process.