When Your Child Wants to Become a Vegetarian

"Fortunately, what's healthy for the planet can be healthy for kids - with a little planning. Many studies show that vegetarian diets are associated with numerous health benefits, but it's true that an adult's high fiber, low-fat diet is not ideal for growing kids. And a vegetarian diet is not automatically healthy; after all, Doritos and soda pop are vegetarian. A healthy diet requires some planning, regardless of its protein sources. But it's especially true for young people and anyone who eschews all animal products."

"In most households, that announcement is met with eye rolls and a flat rejection. But for environmentalist parents who have not given up meat, the response is much more complicated. You know that a low-carbon diet is vegetarian and don't want to discourage your child from doing the right thing. But on the other hand, making separate meals is burdensome and inefficient."

Many young people choose vegetarianism, creating a dilemma for parents balancing environmental values and household practicality. Vegetarian diets offer health benefits but require careful planning for growing children because adult low-fat, high-fiber patterns may not meet developmental needs. Vegetarian options are not automatically healthy, so variety and nutrient-focused choices matter. Special attention should ensure sufficient protein, vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. Parental guidance helps develop sustainable vegetarian habits and prevents restrictive or pasta-heavy diets. With modest planning, obtaining necessary nutrients for vegetarian children is feasible while addressing meal-preparation challenges within the family.

Read at Earth911