Children Can Also Become Vegetarian

A Vegetarian diet that is no stranger to be applied by adults, is now applied to the parents to their children. But the truth can the children stay healthy while being a vegetarian?

In fact, not all vegetarian diet completely avoid animal products. For children, the type of vegetarian which is applied becomes very important. Because with an increasingly strict vegetarian rule is used, the more difficult it is an effort to meet the needs of adequate nutrition.

For Lacto-Ovo vegetarian category, although avoiding meat, they still consume eggs, milk, and dairy products. Meanwhile, Lacto-vegetarian allows milk and dairy products but avoid eggs and bacon. Vegan is a total vegetarian category that did not include foods derived from animal products, including milk and eggs.

Appropriate attention to nutrition intake

As the primary provider of food for their children, parents are vegetarians often presents the same kind to his children. What needs to be noted is the possibility of much greater malnutrition among children than adults because their nutritional needs are higher.

Baby

The primary source of nutrients and protein for infants is breast milk or formula in the first six months. Soy-based formulas can be used for children with a vegan diet.

But keep in mind is a vegan child should be given a source of vitamin B12, especially if the mother's diet does not provide the vitamin. Also, babies also need to get vitamin D supplement if the formula is taken less than one liter.

Suggestions solid foods in infants vegetarian are when the age of six months, together with a general diet. Once the baby is introduced to solid foods, it can be given to vegetarian protein-rich food, such as porridge know, cheese, yogurt either cow's milk or soy, and porridge of various kinds of nuts.

Infants under three years

At this age, it is not different parents face difficulties in providing sufficient food portions. Once the children are no longer obtain breast milk or formula, they become susceptible to nutritional deficiencies. At one year of age, children with risk vegan diet deficient intake of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and zinc (zinc).

Especially in the vegan category, it is important to make sure kids get a portion of protein and iron from vegetables or nuts. But do not give whole nuts to children under five years of age because of the risk of choking. Cut or finely crushed nuts before serving.

Toddlers are notoriously voters to what foods will fit into their mouths. The risk, the intake of calories and nutrients toddler with a vegetarian diet, is not met. Parents can present nutrient-dense food and fortified cereals. Vitamin supplements are also highly recommended for children who may not be getting adequate nutrition.

Pre-teens and Adolescents

If done correctly, a meatless diet can be beneficial active for preteens and teens. Lacto-Ovo vegetarians who still eat eggs and dairy products are an excellent choice. But the vegetarian diet tighter feared could make children and adolescents lack nutrients needed, such as iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

Parents also should be wary if a child or young person suddenly cut calories or avoid any fat and carbohydrates. It could be a sign of an eating disorder who tried to hide the reason for vegetarians.

Even with a vegetarian diet is beneficial to health, still, try to broaden your knowledge of children and young people about this diet. Time at least once a week to eat together so that they understand more about proper nutrition vegetarian.

Avoid Risk of Malnutrition in Children

A vegetarian diet is well planned to meet nutrition for children. But to watch is a risk that can occur if it is not sufficient. Some of the diseases that are associated with malnutrition due to a vegetarian diet, including a vitamin C deficiency, rickets due to vitamin D deficiency in the long term, and kwashiorkor or malnutrition.

It is important for parents to get information from reliable sources, such as pediatricians and nutritionists to their selection of vegetarian food. What is important is to check their health condition with appropriate medical care system for children and adolescents.

As a parent, you must ensure that your child gets all the nutrients it needs. Give the main meals in smaller portions, but more often. Complete with two snacks each day. Make sure they get the requisite amount of different types of food.

Note the intake of calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D children to be enough. Additional vitamin intake is recommended for all children aged six months to five years.

Although not impossible to meet child nutrition through a vegetarian diet, parents still need to be careful and continue to consult with a pediatrician or nutritionist on a regular basis if you want to apply it safely.

Tags : healthy tips

Children Can Also Become Vegetarian