Authors: Sorina-Iuliana Furnea, Roberta-Doris Graef, Teodora Gabriela Muscalu, Rebeca-Eliza Șovea, Roxana Maria Martin-Hadmaș
Affiliation
Community Nutrition and Food Safety Department, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Romania
Abstract
Background. Sleep plays a crucial role in the physical and mental development of children, being influenced by internal and external factors such as circadian rhythms, the sleep environment, and nutrient intake. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can disrupt the biological mechanisms that regulate sleep, affecting the functioning of the nervous system and the synthesis of hormones involved in this process. If the diet does not provide an optimal intake of essential nutrients, dietary supplements may help improve sleep quality.
Aims. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of dietary supplements on sleep quality by investigating the types of supplements used, their effects on sleep parameters, and potential benefits.
Methods. The study was conducted based on a questionnaire addressed to children up to 18 years old, which included questions about supplement intake and sleep parameters. The research lasted from July 2024 to March 2025
Results. Vitamin D supplements have been associated with a longer sleep but lower weight and height, while multivitamins have increased the weight percentile. A later bedtime was linked to higher weight and height, and fish oil supplements have reduced sleep duration.
Conclusion. Vitamin D and other dietary supplements affect sleep and physical growth in children and adolescents, highlighting the importance of an adequate nutrient intake for healthy development.
Keywords: dietary supplements, sleep quality, supplement intake, nutritional research.
The influence of dietary supplement intake on sleep quality in children
