ASK A VEGAN
Isavegandietsafeforkids?
Yes, when planned. All major paediatric dietetic bodies confirm vegan diets are safe for infants, children and teens with adequate B12, D, iron, calcium, iodine and DHA.
HEALTH
Short answer
Yes, when planned. All major paediatric dietetic bodies confirm vegan diets are safe for infants, children and teens with adequate B12, D, iron, calcium, iodine and DHA.
HEALTH
The detail
Position papers from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the British Dietetic Association, the Italian Society of Human Nutrition and the Portuguese DGS all endorse well-planned vegan diets across the life cycle.
The keys are calorie density (kids have small stomachs — use nut butters, avocado, oats), reliable B12, vitamin D, iodine, and an algae-based DHA source.
Source: Melina, Craig, Levin, J Acad Nutr Diet 2016;116(12):1970-1980.
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More questions like this
- Can you be vegan while pregnant?
Yes. A well-planned vegan diet is safe for pregnancy according to every major dietetic body. Prioritise B12, iron, iodine, DHA, choline and folate.
- What supplements do vegans need?
Only B12 is universally required. Vitamin D, iodine, algae-based omega-3 (EPA/DHA), and sometimes zinc, selenium or iron are recommended depending on diet and location.
- Can you raise a vegan baby?
Yes. Breastmilk or a soy-based infant formula (there is no commercial vegan formula in some countries — check locally) supports normal growth if the mother's B12 status is adequate.
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