Nowadays, it’s difficult to estimate exactly how many people have switched to veganism, but with plant-based meats and dairy options now having their own aisle in most grocery stores, it’s obvious that plenty of consumers have made the switch from animal products to veggies. Perhaps the growth in veganism could be tied to malnourishment in modern times – 40% of Americans are deficient in B12 and 10% of children in the U.S. are deficient in iron (both of which are essential nutrients found in eggs, organs, and meat).
The number of vegans increased by 500% from 2014 to 2017.
Of course, with more adults switching to veganism comes a new wave of children being raised as vegans as well. But in the age of information, I fear that even the most loving parents could be easily misguided, only giving their children what they believe they need based on what they think is ethical or moral, and ignoring signs of nutritional deficiencies in the process. This, of course, applies to meat-eaters as well. However, plant-based formulas are naturally low in protein, and most vegan-friendly baby foods have been found to contain heavy metals. And when the diet is centered on feeding a child only vegetables and fruits, they’re dismissing the essential nutrients that are more easily absorbed and found in animal products. What does this mean in terms of their growth and development? Read more…
