is veganism in children good thing?
(MENAFN) Veganism is gaining popularity in various regions around the world. Although global statistics are limited, estimates from 2018 suggested that about 3% of the world’s population followed a vegan lifestyle. In the United States, a 2023 poll found that around 1% of people identified as vegan. Similarly, a recent survey in the UK indicated that roughly 3% of the population, about two million individuals, maintain a plant-based diet.
Choosing veganism comes with several well-recognized benefits. For starters, consuming meat and dairy has a significant negative impact on the environment, whereas plant-based diets offer a much more sustainable alternative. Ethical concerns regarding the treatment of animals raised for food also motivate many to adopt veganism. Additionally, there is evidence suggesting that well-balanced vegan diets can provide certain health benefits.
However, some isolated reports of severe malnutrition in infants have led to debates about whether a vegan diet is suitable for children. Expert opinions on this matter vary internationally. Dietary authorities in countries like the US and UK generally agree that with proper planning, a vegan diet can be safe for infants and children. On the other hand, health organizations in Germany, France, Belgium, and Poland have expressed some reservations.
Research on the effects of plant-based diets on children’s health has been limited historically, but recent studies are beginning to shed more light on this topic.
To clarify, vegans avoid all animal-derived foods, including meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Their diets rely on plants, as well as fungi, algae, and bacteria. This includes a wide range of foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes, alongside common items like bread, pasta, and hummus—many of which happen to be vegan by default.
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