Children are not small adults. Still, a vegetarian diet that meets the needs of healthy adults may also serve the needs of children older than 2 years. But as with adults, vegan diets for children require special attention.

(1) Children on vegan diets need to consume a reliable source of B12 each day.

(2) Vegan children may need a vitamin D supplement.

(3) To ensure adequate intakes of calcium, iron, and zinc, children on vegan diets must eat a variety of foods.

(4) Children need daily snacks to make sure they get enough calories for growth.

(5) Young children pose special nutritional challenges. Seek the advice of a pediatrician or a registered dietitian when feeding infants or toddlers vegetarian diets.

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Types of Vegetarianism

Vegetarian Foods

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