Abstract

LIC. ALVAREZ, Andrea et al. VEGETARIAN DIET IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE. Diaeta [online]. 2021, vol.39, n.174, pp.59-71. ISSN 1852-7337.

Introduction: the popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets is increasing in western countries and are adopted by children and adolescents (Ch&A). The main nutrition and dietetic associations in the world approve this type of dietary practice in these age groups if they are supervised and accompanied by qualified professionals. Objective: take a position as the Argentine Association of Dietitians and Dietitian Nutritionists about the implementation of vegetarian diets in pediatric and adolescent age, considering recommendations based on scientific evidence.

Materials and Method: review and bibliographic update, non-systematic, with searches on Google Scholar, PudMed and Medline between December 2018 and March 2019.

Results: The nutritional assessment, evaluating food intake using a 24-hour reminder and frequency of consumption, will provide guidance on what are the potential nutritional deficiencies that may come up, adapt the diet and/or supplementation of specific nutrients. The vegetarian diet has a lower energy density than the non-vegetarian diet but manages to meet the recommendations. Protein needs are easily met when the diet includes a variety of foods and calories are adequate. Some authors suggest increasing the protein recommendation by 10 to 15%. Considering the contribution of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) to achieve the optimal balance between omega3/omega6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The nutritional requirements of calcium do not vary with respect to omnivores. It is essential to supplement oral vitamin B12 to all vegetarian Ch&A, even in ovolactovegetarians or in Ch&A that habitually consume fortified foods. Proper supplementation is the best way to ensure optimal levels of this vitamin. It is recommended to evaluate the status of vitamin D by supplementing according to age.

Conclusions: Argentine Association of Dietitians and Dietitian Nutritionists states that vegetarian and/or vegan food, planned, supervised and supplemented by a suitable nutrition professional, are healthy in childhood and adolescence. Food and nutrition professionals can play a key role in educating and mentoring vegetarians about specific sources of nutrients, food preparation, and dietary modifications necessary to meet their needs.

Keywords : vegetarian diet; vegan diet; children; adolescents; childhood diet; vegetarian child nutrition; plant-based diet..

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