Vegetarianism and Children

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Lacto-ovovegetarian; Semi-vegetarian; Partial vegetarian; Vegan; Lacto-vegetarian

Vegetarian diets that include some animal products (lacto-vegetarian and lacto-ovovegetarian) are nutritionally sound. Vegan diets require careful planning in order to obtain adequate amounts of required nutrients. The following are recommendations for feeding vegetarian children.

• Breast milk or formula should be the basis of the diet until age 1. (See: Diet for age)
• Milk or a fortified soy formula should be used.
• Fat should not be limited for a child younger than age 2.
• Children who do not drink milk or a fortified substitute may lack the following nutrients: calcium, protein, vitamin D, riboflavin. Such children may need a vitamin and mineral supplement.
• Vitamin B12 supplements must be used if no animal products are eaten.
• Adequate iron intake is difficult to achieve if meat is not consumed. Good sources of iron include prunes and prune juice, fortified cereals and grain products, raisins, and spinach.

NOTE: A registered dietician should review any specialized diet to make sure it meets you or your child's nutritional needs. This should be done before starting the diet.

Review Date: 01/17/2007
Reviewed By: William McGee, M.D., M.H.A., Assistant Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, and Chairman, Nutrition Committee, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.