Lacto-ovovegetarian; Semi-vegetarian; Partial vegetarian; Vegan; Lacto-vegetarian
Recommendations
Vegetarian diets that include some animal products (lacto-vegetarian and lacto-ovovegetarian) are nutritionally sound. Vegan diets require careful planning in order to obtain adequate amounts of required nutrients. The following are recommendations for feeding vegetarian children.
- Breast milk or formula should be the basis of the diet until age 1. (See:
Diet for age ) - Milk or a fortified soy formula should be used.
- Fat should not be limited for a child younger than age 2.
- Children who do not drink milk or a fortified substitute may lack the following nutrients: calcium, protein, vitamin D, riboflavin. Such children may need a vitamin and mineral supplement.
- Vitamin B12 supplements must be used if no animal products are eaten.
- Adequate
iron intake is difficult to achieve if meat is not consumed. Good sources of iron include prunes and prune juice, fortified cereals and grain products, raisins, and spinach.
NOTE: A registered dietician should review any specialized diet to make sure it meets you or your child's nutritional needs. This should be done before starting the diet.
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