5
A recent review in Nutrition Reviews shows that well-planned vegan diets can support healthy growth and development in children. However, careful attention to nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, iodine, and omega-3s is essential.
Key Points
- Vegan diets are popular for health, environmental, and ethical reasons. While adults benefit from plant-based diets, research on vegan diets in children is limited and often inconsistent.
- Children have unique nutritional needs, making it important to plan vegan diets carefully to avoid deficiencies.
- Vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiencies are common risks but can be prevented with supplements. Iron absorption is lower in vegan diets, so vitamin C or supplements help prevent anemia.
- Calcium and iodine intake may also be insufficient without fortified foods or supplements.
- Most studies show children on well-planned vegan diets grow normally and have healthier cholesterol and body weight profiles. However, some report lower bone mineral density, highlighting the need for supplementation.
- Research gaps remain, especially on long-term effects, maternal vegan diets during pregnancy, and specific micronutrients like zinc and selenium.
- Many studies have limitations, including small samples and lack of control groups, leading to inconsistent guidelines.
- Professional consensus on vegan diets for infants and young children is lacking due to limited evidence.
Conclusion
Vegan diets can be safe and healthy for children if properly planned and supplemented. Regular monitoring and multidisciplinary care involving dietitians and pediatricians are essential. Public health efforts should provide tailored, culturally sensitive guidance to support vegan families and prevent health risks.’
Advertisements
Related topics:
Advertisements
Advertisements
