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. 2010 May;15(5):303-14.

Vegetarian diets in children and adolescents

[Article in English, French]
M Amit

Vegetarian diets in children and adolescents

[Article in English, French]
M Amit. Paediatr Child Health. 2010 May.

Abstract
in English, French

A well-balanced vegetarian diet can provide for the needs of children and adolescents. However, appropriate caloric intake should be ensured and growth monitored. Particular attention should be paid to adequate protein intake and sources of essential fatty acids, iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamins B₁₂ and D. Supplementation may be required in cases of strict vegetarian diets with no intake of any animal products. Pregnant and nursing mothers should also be appropriately advised to ensure that the nutritional needs of the fetus and infant are adequately met. Recommendations are provided. Adolescents on restricted vegetarian or other such diets should be screened for eating disorders.

Un régime végétarien bien équilibré peut répondre aux besoins des enfants et des adolescents. Il faut toutefois s’assurer d’un apport calorique suffisant et prévoir une surveillance de la croissance. Il faut accorder une attention particulière à un apport suffisant de protéines et aux sources d’acides gras essentiels, de fer, de zinc, de calcium, de vitamine B12 et de vitamine D. Des suppléments peuvent être nécessaires en cas de régime strictement vegetarien sans consommation de produits animaux. Les femmes enceintes et qui allaitent doivent également obtenir des conseils pour bien respecter les besoins nutritionnels du fœtus et du nourrisson. Des recommandations sont fournies. Les adolescents qui suivent un regime vegetarien restreint ou d’autres régimes de ce genre devraient faire l’objet d’un dépistage de troubles alimentaires.

Keywords: Adolescent; Child; Infant; Vegetarian diets.

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