My friend is a vegan and has her child on a vegan diet. I really worry about their well-being and whether they are healthy. I try nt to say to much, because I get that she doesn't like meat/dairy/eggs, but she just told me yesterday that she doesn't eat bread, her child is 1 and she said they have powder supplement...... Is this even safe? I don't care if she wants to cause her own defiencies but what about her poor child? She has lost lots of weight and looks worn. I don't like to try tell her what to do with her child but I am legitimately concerned for his future wellbeing!!! I just worry her bub won't even have the opportunity to have an immunity to these foods!! anyone have advice?
3 Replies
I have no advice other than if the baby fails to thrive, looks too thin, lacks energy etc don't be afraid to report.,
Vegan diets done right can be just as good and healthy as a diet with animal products (I'm not vegan by the way but do know this as I have met many vegans). However in saying that if she is not using the correct ingredients and all the time with the correct nutrients she and the child will be deficient. Now while I firmly believe in a child having access to all foods, some people you can't change. I would mention vegan recipes you "stumble" across online and try them, say your kids loved them and give them to her firstly before just saying something about what she is doing (that might push her further away). If her child does seem to be lacking and have no energy and she does not change it, unfortunately you may need to report her to child safety but don't do this unless you need to.
I remember a case from a few years ago where parents were charged with neglect after putting their child on a vegan diet, i would be greatly concerned if a child i knew was on avegan diet, what supplements is she giving him?