Plant-based Diets for Paediatrics & Adolescents
A carefully designed plant-based or vegan diet has been proven to be safe for people of all ages, from infancy to adolescence. Our plant-based dietitian is here to help you make sure that your child's diet is nutritionally balanced, offer delicious meal and snack ideas, and provide guidance for dealing with selective eating habits.
Hi!
I'm Monica, Vegan & Plant-Based Dietitian
With more than 8 years of clinical experience as an Accredited Practicing Dietitian, I am proud to be the founder of Plant Based Family Nutrition. From infancy to adulthood, I am dedicated to helping individuals incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets. My true passion lies in motivating clients to embrace a wholesome and well-rounded approach to nutrition.
As an online vegan dietitian, I extend my services across Australia via Telehealth, making professional guidance easily accessible to individuals nationwide.
Are plant-based diet safe for infants & children?
In recent years, plant-based diets have surged in popularity - but are they safe from birth? The short answer is - YES!
The Australian Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) asserts that "WELL PLANNED plant-based diets are safe at all stages of life, including pregnancy, breastfeeding, and infancy." This viewpoint aligns with the stance of the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, advocating that appropriately structured vegetarian diets (including vegan diets) can offer adequate nutrition and be healthful for individuals of all ages.
During infancy and early childhood, when rapid growth occurs, extra care is essential to ensure children receive sufficient energy and nutrients. This is particularly vital for children following a vegan diet, where specific nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and zinc require special attention.
While plant-based diets can offer various health benefits, including lower risk of chronic diseases and promoting a diverse range of nutrient intake, it's essential to ensure that children on these diets receive proper nutrition to support their growth and overall well-being. Professional guidance from a specialised plant-based dietitian and a well-structured, diverse diet are key to ensuring that plant-based diets are safe and beneficial for infants and children.
A Plant-Based Dietitian can help with children & adolescents by
01.
Education & support
for introduction of
solids (6m+)
02.
Comprehensive dietary analysis & meal
plan support
03.
Tailored nutritional
supplementation review & recommendation
04.
Meal & snack
inspiration
05.
Support for 'selective'
eating