
Plant-based kids’ nutrition.
From preconception to birth, through infancy to adolescence, appropriately planned plant-based diets have proven powers to meet the needs of growing bodies, and preventative power when it comes to diet-related diseases.
Whether you are exploring plant-based options or fully embracing them, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your family’s journey.
The standard Western diet is failing our children.
The standard Australian diet (a standard Western diet), heavy in animal based and highly processed foods, is a leading cause of preventable disease.
Adults who follow a standard Western diet have an increased risk of many chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and several common forms of cancer, including bowel and stomach cancers. Research suggests these risks extend to children, starting as early as in the womb.
The consequences of childhood obesity are particularly concerning, as overweight children are more likely to become overweight adolescents and adults – a primary risk factor contributing to future chronic illness such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, and inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables are contributing to perinatal and early childhood health harms. The foods children eat early in life shape their preferences, which can influence their eating habits – and associated health risks – for years to come.
Giving them the plant advantage.
Plant-based diets, centered around fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts and seeds, are a proven recipe for health promotion and disease prevention.
While research is ongoing, available data shows that well-planned plant-based diets that minimise or exclude animal products altogether can adequately support healthy growth and development from infancy onwards, with potential benefits such as:
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Healthier body weights.
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Lower cholesterol levels.
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Reduced risk of chronic disease, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Importantly, major medical and dietetic bodies worldwide, including Australia, recognise the suitability of well-planned plant-based diets throughout pregnancy and childhood. These include Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council, the US Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the British Dietetic Association, the Canadian Pediatric Society and Italy’s Scientific Society for Vegetarian Nutrition.
As with all dietary patterns, care must be taken to meet the nutritional needs specific to each life stage. Vitamin B12 supplementation is essential on a plant-based diet, and other key nutrients of focus include iron, calcium, vitamin D, iodine and omega-3 fatty acids.
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By Monica Rundle, Dietitian at Plant Based Family Nutrition.
Supporting your plant-based nutrition journey.
Providing well-planned plant-based meals that meet children’s needs across their varying growth and development stages can be challenging to navigate, with limited nutrition resources currently available.
Growing Plant-Based is here to bridge that gap! Whether you are exploring plant-based options or fully embracing them, we are developing expert-informed guides and a range of practical resources to empower your family to thrive, every step of the way. If you would like to support this work please consider making a donation today.
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Growing Plant-Based acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live and we pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.