If you are a parent in Mumbai, you have likely taken a deep breath over the dull grey haze outside your window or while fretting when your child coughs after playing outdoors. You’re not alone. The World Health Organization (WHO) says air pollution is responsible for over 7 million premature deaths a year and children are particularly at risk, as their lungs are still developing.
At closer quarters, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) frequently registers between PM2.5 levels in Mumbai, well above the safe threshold especially in the winter, when pollution tends to spike.
So, do children really need air purifiers and multivitamins? The short answer: Yes to air purifiers in most homes, and multivitamins only if recommended. Let’s break it down.
Why Are Air Purifiers Crucial for Kids in Mumbai?
Here in Mumbai, the combination of traffic fumes, building dust and factory smoke mixed with that smog which we don’t look forward to seeing every year brings us a heady mix of pollutants. And here’s the scary part: Kids breathe at a rate about 1.5 times faster than adults, so they are getting more air into their lungs (and more pollution), simply by being smaller and closer to the ground.
Even inside isn’t always safe. Dust mites, mold, incense smoke and even cooking smells can irritate sensitive lungs. No wonder, pediatricians say in Mumbai, they are seeing more kids with chronic coughs, allergies and even disturbed sleep courtesy poor indoor air.
That’s why many families and some schools are now adding HEPA filter air purifiers to the mix. Here, what parents see after just a few weeks:
- Less coughing and sneezing
- Better sleep at night
- Improved focus during homework and play
Quick Tips for Picking the Right Purifier
Choose a True HEPA filter (not just “HEPA-type”)
Match the CADR rating to your room size
Go for a quiet model in bedrooms or study areas
Clean and replace filters regularly—dusty filters stop working
💡 Good news: You don’t need to spend a fortune. Brands like Philips, Honeywell, and Sharp offer solid options under ₹15,000, available at Croma stores or online on Flipkart and Amazon.
Understanding Multivitamins for Children
Unlike air purifiers, multivitamins aren’t a “must-have” for every child. They’re more of a case-by-case need.
👩⚕️ As Dr. Vivasvan Parekh, Pediatrician at Vivasvan Parekh Child Care Clinic Mumbai, says:
“Most healthy children who eat balanced meals don’t need extra supplements. But in cases of picky eating, dietary restrictions, or deficiencies, vitamins like D3 or Iron may be recommended.”
When Supplements Can Help
- Picky eaters that often leave out or refuse entire food groups.
- Children on any type of special diet (vegan, elimination, etc)
- Kids with low Vitamin D (a lot of urban kids don’t get much sun)
- Those that have anemia or absorption problems
Do’s & Don’ts for Parents
✅ Do focus food first; go for colorful plates featuring fruits, vegetables, protein and dairy
✅ Do Consult Your Pediatrician Before Beginning Any Supplement
❌ Don’t offer store-bought multivitamins without the guidance of a medical professional
❌ Don’t view supplements as a substitute for meals
Nutrition vs. Supplements – What Parents Should Know
| Category | Role in Child Health | Sources / Examples | When Supplements May Be Needed | Parent Tips |
| Proteins | Essential for growth, muscle development, and tissue repair. Supports immune function. | Eggs, lean meats, poultry, fish, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, dairy. | Children who avoid protein-rich foods or have vegetarian/vegan diets. | Include a protein source in every meal; vary plant and animal proteins if possible. |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Support immunity, bone growth, brain development, and overall health. | Fruits (citrus, berries, mango), vegetables (spinach, carrots, bell peppers), nuts, seeds, dairy. | Picky eaters, nutrient absorption issues, or restrictive diets. Vitamin D3, Iron, or Calcium may be prescribed. | Encourage colorful plates with a variety of fruits and vegetables to cover multiple vitamins. |
| Healthy Fats | Aid brain development, hormone production, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. | Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish (salmon, sardines). | Rarely needed unless the child has very limited fat intake. | Use moderate amounts of healthy fats in meals and snacks. |
| Carbohydrates & Fiber | Provide energy for growth, play, and learning. Fiber supports digestion. | Whole grains (brown rice, oats, whole wheat bread), fruits, vegetables, legumes. | Supplements are rarely required; fiber-rich foods are usually sufficient. | Opt for whole grains over refined; combine with proteins/fats for balanced meals. |
| Hydration | Maintains energy, supports digestion, and helps nutrient absorption. | Water, fresh fruit juices (limited), soups. | Supplements are generally unnecessary; monitor water intake. | Encourage regular water breaks, especially during play or outdoor activity. |
| Supplements | Targeted support for specific deficiencies; not a replacement for food. | Vitamin D3, Iron, Calcium, Multivitamins (doctor-prescribed). | Picky eaters, restrictive diets, absorption issues, low immunity as assessed by pediatrician. | Always consult a pediatrician before starting supplements; follow dosage guidance. |
Mumbai Parenting Realities
Bringing up kids in a city as busy and crowded as Mumbai has its own set of challenges:
- High-rise living frequently translates to less natural ventilation and fewer green play areas.
- Packed school schedules mean less time for outdoor play — and, therefore, less exposure to Vitamin D.
- Street food temptations are everywhere — delicious, perhaps, but not always the healthiest.
That’s why many parents are finding balance through small, practical changes at home. A warm glass of haldi doodh before bed, lemon-honey water in the morning, or simple snack swaps—like replacing fried chips with roasted chana or fresh fruits—can go a long way in boosting immunity and building healthier habits.
Quick Checklist – Protecting Your Kids from Pollution
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Use a HEPA purifier in bedrooms for cleaner sleep air | Don’t burn incense sticks or candles indoors daily |
| Track the AQI daily with apps like AirVisual | Don’t open windows during peak traffic hours |
| Add indoor plants like areca palm for mild air benefits | Don’t self-prescribe supplements—always consult a pediatrician |
| Serve immune-boosting foods (fruits, veggies, turmeric milk, nuts) | |
| Encourage outdoor play early in the morning when pollution is lower |
Key Takeaways for Parents
- An air purifier is a wise buy in most Mumbai homes, especially to protect kids’ lungs.
- Food First- Food should always come first. A balanced, colorful plate will do more for your child’s health than a bottle of multivitamins.
- Supplements aren’t for everyone — they can only help if you need them, and always under the guidance of a doctor.
- Small changes can make a big difference, and they add up — cleaner air (and maybe sparklers instead of firecrackers), healthier food choices and little daily rituals can all contribute to your child’s optimal health.
Conclusion: Protect Your Child’s Health in Mumbai—Air, Nutrition, and Expert Guidance
We know how difficult it is to try to keep children healthy in this busy city. But with the right tools — air purifiers, nutritious meals and guidance from pediatric experts — you can give your kid a safe start in life, even under the unsettling conditions created by Mumbai’s pollution.
✨ At Vivasvan Parekh Child Care Clinic Mumbai, personalized consultations are there related to air quality, nutrition, and supplements. Schedule an appointment today to help your child grow up big and strong, happy and healthy.
“We began using a purifier when my son couldn’t stop coughing. Within weeks, his sleep improved and he had fewer sick days. Combining it with doctor-ordered vitamin D drops made a huge difference.” — Parent, Andheri East
“Give your child the best start—book a personalized consultation at Vivasvan Parekh Child Care Clinic Mumbai today!”
FAQs
- Do kids in Mumbai really need air purifiers?
Yes. WHO and CPCB data confirm pollution levels exceed safe limits. Air purifiers reduce indoor PM2.5, PM10, and allergens. - Are multivitamins necessary for children in India?
Not always. Healthy eaters don’t need them. Supplements help only when deficiencies exist. - How can I protect my child from pollution in Mumbai?
Use HEPA purifiers, check AQI daily, avoid peak smog hours, and boost nutrition with citrus fruits, green veggies, and dairy. - When should kids take supplements?
Only after consulting a pediatrician for diet gaps, deficiencies, or absorption issues. - Which are the best air purifiers for homes in Mumbai?
Affordable HEPA-based purifiers from Philips, Honeywell, Sharp with CADR suited for room size. Available locally in Mumbai electronics stores.
