Children Can Also Be Vegetarian

The vegetarian diet that is already familiar to adults is now beginning to be applied by parents to their children. Which is then questioned, whether a vegetarian diet can support the needs of children. In fact, not all vegetarian diets actually avoid animal products. For children, which type of vegetarian is applied is very important. Because with the increasingly stringent vegetarian rules that are applied, it is also increasingly difficult to meet the needs of adequate nutrition. For the lacto-ovo vegetarian category, even though they avoid meat, they still consume eggs, milk, and dairy products. Meanwhile, lacto vegetarians allow milk and dairy products, but avoid eggs and meat. Vegan is a total vegetarian category that does not include foods that come from animals, including milk and eggs.

Pay Attention to Appropriate Nutrition Intake

As the main provider of food for their children, vegetarian parents often offer the same type of food to their children. It should be noted that the possibility of malnutrition is far greater in children than adults because of their higher nutritional needs.

• Baby

The main source of nutrition and protein for infants is breast milk or formula milk in the first six months. Soy-based formula milk can be used for babies with a vegan diet. But what needs to be considered is that vegan babies need to be given a source of vitamin B12, especially if the mother's food intake does not contain the vitamin. In addition, infants also need to get vitamin D supplements if formula milk is consumed less than one liter. Provision of solid food in vegetarian babies is when they are six months old, the same as the general diet. After babies are introduced to solid foods, they can be given protein-rich foods for vegetarians, such as tofu porridge, cheese, yogurt from either cow or soy milk, and porridge from various types of beans.

• Toddler (under three years)

At this age, it is not uncommon for parents to face difficulties in providing adequate food portions. After these children no longer receive breast milk or formula milk, they become vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies. At the age of one year, children with a vegan diet are at risk of experiencing a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and zinc (zinc). Especially in the vegan category, it is very important to ensure that children get a portion protein and iron from vegetables or nuts. But do not give whole beans to children under the age of five because of the risk of choking. Cut or mash the beans before serving. Toddlers are known to be very picky about what foods will get into their mouths. The risk, toddler's calorie intake and nutrition with a vegetarian diet is not fulfilled. Parents can serve nutritionally dense foods and fortified cereals. Vitamin supplements are also highly recommended for children who may not get enough nutrition.

• Preteens and Adolescents

If done correctly, a meat-free diet can have positive benefits for preadolescents and teenagers. Lacto-ovo vegetarians who continue to consume eggs and dairy products are an excellent choice. But a more strict vegetarian diet is feared to make children and adolescents deficient in the nutrients needed, such as iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Older people should also be vigilant if children or adolescents suddenly reduce their calorie intake or avoid all types of fats and carbohydrates. It could be a sign of eating disorders that are trying to be hidden with vegetarian reasons. Even though being vegetarian can be beneficial for your health, keep trying to expand your children's and teen's knowledge about this diet. You can at least once a week to eat together so that they understand more about proper vegetarian nutrition intake.

Avoiding the Risk of Malnutrition in Children

A well-planned vegetarian diet can meet nutrition for children. But what needs to be watched out is the risk that can occur if the child's nutritional needs are insufficient. Some diseases are associated with malnutrition due to vegetarian diets, including vitamin C deficiency, rickets due to vitamin D deficiency in the long run, and kwashiorkor or edema. It is important for parents to get information from trusted sources, such as pediatricians and nutritionists regarding their vegetarian food choices. No less important is to keep checking health conditions with a medical care system that is suitable for children and adolescents. As a parent, you must ensure that your child gets all the nutrients he needs. Give the main meal in smaller portions, but more often. Complete with two snacks each day. Make sure they get their intake from various types of food. Pay attention to your child's intake of calcium, vitamin B12 and vitamin D to be sufficient. Additional vitamin intake is recommended for all children aged six months to five years. Although it is not impossible to fulfill the child's nutrition through a vegetarian diet, parents must still be careful and continue to consult with a pediatrician or nutritionist regularly if they want to apply safely.