At what age can children start eating a vegetarian diet?

According to Dr. Phan Bich Nga, Director of the Nutrition Counseling Center at the National Institute of Nutrition, many people are now trending towards vegetarianism. Especially among those who are strict vegetarians, they often encourage, or even "force," their children to become vegetarians because of their belief that vegetarianism is very good for health.

"We met many mothers who are strict vegetarians, and they have a strong will to impose their will and force their children to become vegetarians as well," Dr. Nga said.

According to nutrition experts, children under 15 should not follow a vegetarian diet. A vegetarian diet lacking in nutrients not only affects physical development but also impacts the development of nerve cells (Image: Getty).

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However, according to this expert, children under 15 should not follow a vegetarian diet. A vegetarian diet at this age prevents the body from receiving sufficient nutrients, affecting not only physical development and height but also the maturation of nerve cells.

"In reality, many children who adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet are found to be malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, along with vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies and anemia, when examined," said Dr. Nga.

Therefore, according to this expert, children need to eat a balanced diet containing all four food groups: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Parents need to provide children with a diverse diet, sufficient and regular sleep, and at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day... so that children can develop comprehensively.

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Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/tre-em-o-tuoi-nao-co-the-an-chay-20240304153550563.htm