TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Healthy children do not necessarily have to be vegetarian or vegan. But children can be vegetarian or vegan if they choose to. The vegetarian and vegan lifestyle is now being chosen by many people for health reasons.
As reported by Very Well, children who are vegetarian are associated with proud achievements and high IQs. People who are vegetarians who still consume dairy products and eggs also do not need protein-specific supplements because they are not protein-deficient. That's it is not forbidden for children to be vegetarian, or even vegan.
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All the nutrients children need can be obtained from a plant-based diet, except vitamin B12 that must be obtained from supplements. Fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts contain a variety of nutrients and minerals, as well as antioxidants and phytonutrients that are very good for health and cannot be obtained from animal food sources.
That is why there is no prohibition of children being vegetarian or vegan. When the diet is balanced, adopting vegetarian or vegan lifestyle is very beneficial. According to the American Dietetic Association, a well-planned vegetarian diet can be done by anyone and at any stage of life, from pregnant women, breastfeeding, children, adults, and sportsmen alike. Especially when looking at the fact 17 percent of children aged 2-19 years in the United States are overweight.
According to health expert Neal Barnard MD, a diet with vegetable sources provides several benefits for children. The diet is safe for children of all ages, the need for fruits and vegetables are met, making the heart healthier, and reducing the risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 and obesity.
For parents, if children want to be vegetarian and vegan, give them a chance to try. Being a vegetarian child in a non-vegetarian family is a formidable challenge. Vegetarian children tend to eat more fruits and vegetables, therefore, their intake of vitamin C, folate, and fiber is very high. When children choose to become vegetarian, usually other family members will also adjust their diet.
According to nutritionist Kathleen Zelman, children may become vegetarian but still incorporate dairy products into their diet so that they do not lack the calcium and vitamin D needed for strong bones and teeth growth.
If there are no sources of animal foods in the diet, make sure the protein, fat, calories, calcium, iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D needs are met. Better yet, parents should consult a dietitian about their children becoming vegetarian.
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