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Health

Can children follow a vegan diet?

Short answer

Yes if well planned, according to AND. It needs attention to B12, iodine, vitamin D, calcium, iron, energy and protein. Medical decisions belong with a paediatrician.

AND (2016) considers well-planned vegan diets appropriate in pregnancy, lactation and childhood. BDA stresses supplementation and nutrient density.

A poorly planned plant diet is risky. So is a poorly planned omnivorous diet. Planning matters more than a moral label.

Sources

  1. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Vegetarian Diets
  2. Vegetarian and vegan dietary patterns to support pediatric nutrition — AAP
  3. Plant-based diet — British Dietetic Association

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