Vegan diets for children
If you’re
breastfeeding and you’re on a vegan diet, it’s important that you take a vitamin D supplement. You may also need extra vitamin B12.
Take care when giving children a vegan diet. Young children need a good variety of foods to provide the energy and vitamins they need for growth.
A vegan diet can be bulky and high in fibre. This can mean that children get full up before they’ve taken in enough calories. Because of this, they may need extra supplements. Ask a dietitian or doctor for advice before introducing your child to solids.
Energy
Young children need lots of energy to grow and develop. Give vegan children high-calorie foods, such as hummus, bananas and smooth nut and seed butters (such as tahini and cashew or peanut butter). They still need starchy foods. However, don't give only wholegrain and wholemeal versions to children under five years old because they're high in fibre. For extra energy, you could add vegetable oils or vegan fat spreads to foods.
Protein
Pulses and food made from pulses are a good source of protein for vegan children. Nut and seed butters also contain protein. Always use smooth versions for babies and children under five years old. Breastfeeding until your child is two or more, or giving them soya-based formula milk if they are vegan, will help ensure they get enough protein.
Ask your GP for advice before using soya-based formula.
Calcium
Fortified soya drinks often have added
calcium. Some foods are also fortified with calcium, so check the label.
Vitamin B12
Fortified breakfast cereals and some yeast extracts contain
vitamin B12. Your child may also need a supplement.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Some
omega-3 fatty acids are found in certain vegetable oils, such as linseed, flaxseed, walnut and rapeseed oils. However, these are chemically different from the long chain omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish. Evidence suggests that these short-chain fatty acids may not offer the same protection against
heart disease as those found in oily fish.
Click 
