Pediatria pre prax 5/2010

Alternative nutrition in children

Vegetarianism is becoming more common among adults, with 1 in 40 adults currently choosing a vegetarian diet. Consequently, more children are raised as vegetarians. Vegetarianism is adopted for various reasons, including moral, religious, and health. Well-planned vegetarian diets can satisfy the nutritional needs and promote normal growth of infants and children. Several vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients may be deficient within a vegetarian diet. Infants and young children should not be fed a vegan diet.

Keywords: vegetarian, vegan, alternative nutrition in children.