Scientists at Cardiff University (UK) have explained why vegetarianism can be bad for children. According to nutritionists, children under two years old should receive animal fats and proteins. In addition, it is more difficult for a growing body to extract vitamins and other nutrients from plant tissues. Writes about this publication Science Alert.
For the first six months, babies get all the nutrients they need from breast milk, but after this period, their diets should be varied and include animal protein and fat along with vegetables, fruits and grains. The more varied the food, the less the risk of deficiency of any nutrients.
Although plant foods can meet protein requirements, many vitamins and minerals (iron, calcium, iodine, zinc, vitamin B12 and vitamin D) are tightly bound to fiber, making it difficult for the body to release and absorb it. Thus, a healthy diet should include not only vegetables, fruits and grains, but also eggs and dairy products.
According to experts, veganism, that is, a strict form of vegetarianism that excludes any animal products, is dangerous for young children, since it increases the risk of deficiencies in important nutrients. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, and vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological disease. A study of children in the Netherlands showed that minors on a strictly vegetarian diet suffer from mineral deficiencies and insufficient growth at 6-18 months.