Should My Child Be On a Vegan Diet?

16 Jan Should My Child Be On a Vegan Diet?

In recent years, more and more people from all walks of have started adopting a vegan diet and found success with this way of eating. A pure vegan diet focuses on eating plant-based foods and eliminates all animal by-products, which includes dairy, eggs, and even honey. When done correctly, a vegan diet can be a very clean and healthy way of eating, and with so many adults finding success with this diet, it is common for parents to wonder if kids should try this way of eating as well.

Unfortunately, this isn’t all that simple of an answer.

The vegan diet is one of the many different healthy diet plans out there, and with its emphasis on plants, fruits and vegetables, it can be an excellent way for kids to start eating more greens. When followed correctly and focused on organic, natural foods, it can be a great way for any person to eat a nutrient-rich diet that is void of unnecessary chemicals, fats or processed elements.

However, the vegan diet can be complicated to follow for a child. And it is essential to remember that a true vegan diet isn’t just about eliminating animal products but by eating plenty of clean, healthy, and natural foods. There are plenty of foods out there that are technically vegan but not technically healthy. And most parents know that lots of kids will try almost anything to skirt the rules and eat junk food when they can.

If you would like to put your child on a vegan diet, you need to make sure that you are diligent about doing the vegan diet the right way and making sure that your child isn’t missing out on any essential food groups, particularly proteins by eating vegan. Remember, what is healthy for adults isn’t always right for children.

If you are interested in vegan eating for its benefits, you should do your research on what eating vegan truly means, the foods that you can and can’t have, and the risks and benefits of this lifestyle. The more you understand about veganism before you consider it for your child, the better.

We also recommend that before you start this or any new diet plan with your child, you talk to your doctor beforehand. Your doctor will be able to tell you if adopting a vegan way of living is right for your child based on their individual age and needs. They may also refer you to a nutritionist who can help you get started on a vegan diet and make sure that you are doing it correctly in a way that is still beneficial for your child.
If you ever have questions about the health and nutrition of your child or want to make sure that they are staying healthy while starting a new diet, contact Continuum Pediatrics at 817-617-8650 and schedule an appointment.