Open Talk Mom

Things to Consider When Raising your Child Vegetarian

Posted on 12. Nov, 2009 by Mary Lutz in Mom Talk

There has been much debate over vegetarian eating in the past. As a vegetarian parent you probably want to raise your baby that way but you might have some questions. Here are a few things to consider when deciding to raise your child as a vegetarian.

One of the first questions asked is often about protein. Will they be getting enough? When a diet includes meat, there is usually no question about that.

First, if your child is breastfeeding, any nutrients that their bodies lack will come from you. For bottle feeding, most if not all formulas are fortified with vitamins and minerals to give baby everything that they need.

The misconception about protein is that there is none in plants. That is not true. Nuts, legumes, green leafy vegetables all contain lots of protein. And, plant protein is leaner than animal protein. There is less fat and what it contains is healthy.

It is always good to consult your pediatrician at the first doctor’s visit. Let them know your concerns. He can offer you suggestions for solid foods when baby is old enough to start. Also, ask about the difference between foods so that you can still maintain a healthy lifestyle for your child even without meat.

When baby is ready to be weaned off the bottle and start eating solid food, you are in the same boat as other parents. Introduce single grains like rice, oats and corn first. Stores sell boxes of single grains that can be mixed with milk to make a breakfast cereal. Also, you can purchase puffed rice and corn as finger foods for them.

One important thing to know is that children like simple foods. They are beginning with a fresh, untested palate. You don’t need to add fats or seasonings to foods. Let the natural flavor come through.

Consider making your own baby food. If you read the labels on baby food jars in the store, some may contain ingredients made from animal products. Home-made baby food is fresh and often more nutritious, as the preserving and canning process can remove many of the nutrients in store-bought food.

Be prepared to make home-made baby food with the necessary equipment. You’ll want to be familiar with proper and safe food preparation to avoid any illness. The good thing is you will know what is in your baby’s food and become more conscious of your own food choices.

Even without the meat, creating a healthy mix of fruits, vegetables, grains and nuts will provide the minerals and vitamins that baby needs for proper growth and development. Besides, you are starting your child off on a track that will help combat obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol. Here’s to a long and healthful life for your children!
photo credit: chimothy27

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About the author  Mary Lutz began blogging in 2004 on her personal blog. In June of 2008, she began her own Virtual Assistant Business, and discovered her passion for writing. Besides writing for her own blogs, she also writes for other Work at Home Mom sites. Read more from this author

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Tags: child, food, vegetarian