HEALTHY TIPS FOR YOUR VEGETARIAN CHILD

MANHATTAN -- Some kids have decided for various reasons that they would like to be vegetarians.

A Kansas State University child nutrition expert says your child can still have a nutritious diet as a vegetarian if a wide variety of foods are eaten.

Paula Peters, assistant professor of foods and nutrition, says that if children want to follow a vegetarian diet, parents should help them receive the needed nutrients. Peters suggests the following:

* It is easier to meet nutritional needs if dairy products and eggs are included in the diet.

* Protein needs can be met by eating a wide variety of foods throughout the day.

* Supplements of Vitamin B-12, iron and Vitamin D may be needed especially if your child consumes no animal products at all.

* Provide plenty of calories for your child to grow.

Peters also advises that the risk of nutrient deficiency is greatest when children are growing rapidly, for instance during preschool years and during adolescence. At these times it is important that your child eat a wide variety of foods and get plenty of calories to help them grow properly.

 

October 1995