Most people do not like killing animals and they do not prefer to eat non-vegetarian food. It is vital for parents to make know if their choice vegetarian diet good for their children. Parents who impose strict vegetarian diets for their children might end up making their kids physically and mentally weak, if they do not follow a good plan with their diet preference.
Dairy products can provide calcium and protein to children but children might also require non-vegetarian foods for their proper growth. Eggs, beef, meat, and fish are rich in vitamins, fats, minerals, and fats that are vital for mental and physical growth of an individual, especially children.
How vegetarian diet is bad for children?
Vegan diet can damage your child’s growth as it can lead to various nutrition deficiencies in children. It is a bad idea to keep children on vegetarian diet as meat can provide many vital nutrients like iron, protein, zinc, copper, vitamins, and more. It is quite good to include dairy products and eggs in the meal of your child but avoiding all animal foods can lead to many serious problems in your children and some of them are as follows:
Poor growth
Excluding animal foods from your child’s meal can lead to poor growth and development of your child. The child may not get enough protein, vitamins, and calcium, which can make them mentally and physically weak.
Lack of nutrients
Fish, eggs, meat, beef, and other animal foods are rich in many nutrients. Vegan child can lack in vital nutrients and this can increase the risk of various health conditions.
Can lead to B12 deficiency
Vegans might find their diet to be deficient in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is vital for healthy body as it is important for metabolism and helps in the formation of red blood cells in the body.
Bone loss
Eggs, milk, and fish are high in calcium and proteins, which provide strength to bones and muscles. Shortage of calcium can lead to low bone density and osteoporosis. Calcium is also beneficial for muscle movement and smooth functioning of central nervous system.
Zinc and iron deficiency
Red meats, fish, and poultry are great source of iron and zinc. Vegan children may suffer from anemia and zinc deficiency that can make them very sick. Main symptoms of anemia include weakness, slow cognitive development, and exhaustion. Zinc deficiency can affect your immunity.
Summary
If you are following a strict diet regimen like vegetarianism, keep a tab on nutritional values and ensure your children receive enough required nutrients with their diet plan. Change the diet plan to meet necessary nutrition requirements.
