How Do You Raise A Child As A Vegetarian?
Some parents and pediatricians feel a vegetarian diet is unhealthy for a child, however, if planned well, this type of eating is a great way for children to get a balanced diet and all of the nutrients that they need to grow and thrive. Consider all nutritional requirements before raising your child as a vegetarian. Understand the differences in the types of vegetarian diets. The range is all across the board, from semi-vegetarians, who simply avoid red meat, to vegans, who do not consume foods such as eggs, milk products, seafood, poultry and red meat. There are several in-between versions of the diet as well, each restricting different nutrients that need to be supplemented if not received through different types of foods. Pay attention to caloric needs. Vegetarian diets tend to accrue less total calories than non-vegetarian diets. With kids, it is imperative they consume a certain amount of calories to sustain growth. Discuss these needs with your healthcare provider and come up wit