As Fox Newsreports,kids can be safely vegan in most cases as long as their diet includes the right vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.Harvard Health elaborates that children need foods rich in iron (like broccoli, spinach, or lentils), calcium (fortified plant-based milk and kale), vitamin D (found in some orange juices!), and zinc for healthy development and immune response. Don't forget about proteins, which are found not only in animal products, but also in nuts, soy, and other sources. A proper vegan diet can be rich in these nutrients, making it a healthy option for young and older diners alike.
A 2021 study found that vegan children exhibit a normal growth rate and are less likely to be obese than their peers who consume animal products. Another studysays that among vegan adults, there is a lower risk of developing chronic diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular challenges, and some types of cancer. However, science doesn't currently have enough evidence to completely back a vegan diet for kids, and parents would do well to seek advice from a professional nutritionist or doctor if they have questions about what's best for their children.
Wondering what a rich, complete vegan kids' meal might look like? One mom advised Fox readers to put "all the colors of the rainbow" on their kids' plate. For example, go for proteins like beans or chickpeas, served alongside fatty and creamy avocado and a juicy pico de gallo. Colorful antioxidants doesn't it sound delicious?
Link:
What To Know About The Safety Of A Vegan Diet For Kids - Mashed