Vegetarianism refers to a diet composed solely of vegetables, fruit, nuts, grains, beans, eggs, and dairy. This diet excludes all animal flesh but allows for the consumption of animal products for instances honey, eggs, or dairy.

On the other hand, veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products. This can be limited to dietary vegans, who refrain from eating any animal products or byproducts (dairy, eggs, or honey). Veganism can also extend to the use of animal products in clothing, beauty products, and other everyday products.

In adulthood vegetarian and vegan diets have been associated with many health benefits.  Studies have found that compared to non-vegetarians, vegetarians have a lower rate of heart disease, and death from heart related problems.   The increased health benefits are seen in those who eat a “rainbow diet,” full of vegetables, fruits, legumes and natural grains.

Is a vegan diet ok for children?

Veganism in childhood can be controversial as some worry about children becoming deficient in key nutrients during critical times of growth and brain development.  And while vegan diets do make it more complicated to get certain nutrients, it is not impossible and with the proper oversight can be safe.

Here’s what you should remember. Calories are also very important in a vegan diet.  For vegans, this can mean the need more bulk in order to meet caloric needs.  For children this can be difficult as they have smaller stomach and get full quickly.  Fats in forms like avocados, nuts, nut butters, seeds, and seed butters will provide a concentrated source of calories needed by many vegan children. Dried fruits are also a concentrated calorie source and are an attractive food for many children.  Sources of protein for vegan children include legumes, grains, tofu, tempeh, soymilk, nuts, peanut butter, tahini, soy hot dogs, soy yogurt, and veggie burgers.

In summary, a vegan diet is possible in children, however it needs to be done with extreme caution and your pediatrician should be made aware to ensure that your child’s growth and development is on track.  Furthermore, medicine is one area where exceptions should be made.  Medicines development often involves human and animal testing. Until there is a better way to research treatments and ensure safety, children should be allowed to receive required medicine regardless of involvement of animal testing.