First thousand days of life and vegetarian diets

2021 ◽  
pp. 33-37
Author(s):  
D. S. Yasakov ◽  
S. G. Makarova ◽  
A. P. Fisenko ◽  
O. B. Ladodo ◽  
T. R. Chumbadze
Keyword(s):  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Functional Abilities ◽  
Nutrient Deficiencies ◽  
Future Health ◽  
Pregnancy And Lactation ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

The first thousand days of a child's life have important role in their future health. The adequacy of nutrition during this period critically affects the growth of the child, the development of his functional abilities, the full formation of all body systems. A well-planned mother's diet is important during pre-conception, during pregnancy and lactation. The choice of a vegetarian or vegan diet often occurs even in the pre-conception period, and at the onset of pregnancy, vegetarian women most often do not change their type of diet. Due to the risk of a number of nutrient deficiencies, the use of plant-based diets during pregnancy and lactation requires high awareness of mothers regarding diet planning, as well as special attention from pediatricians and nutritionists due to the increased nutritional risks.

scholarly journals Vegetarian diets in childhood and adolescence

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Silvia Rudloff ◽  
Christoph Bührer ◽  
Frank Jochum ◽  
Thomas Kauth ◽  
Mathilde Kersting ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin B12 ◽  
Saturated Fatty Acids ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Vegetarian Diet ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Childhood And Adolescence ◽  
Nutrient Deficiencies ◽  
Omega 3 ◽  
Animal Products ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

Abstract In Western countries, vegetarian diets are associated with lower intakes of energy, saturated fatty acids and animal protein and higher intakes of fibre and phytochemicals, compared to omnivorous diets. Whether the corresponding health benefits in vegetarians outweigh the risks of nutrient deficiencies has not been fully clarified. It should be noted that vegetarians often have a higher socioeconomic status, follow a more health-conscious lifestyle with higher physical activity, and refrain from smoking more often than non-vegetarians. The nutritional needs of growing children and adolescents can generally be met through a balanced, vegetable-based diet; however, due to their higher nutrient requirements per kilogramme of body weight, vegetarian children have a higher risk for developing nutrient deficiencies than adults. With a vegetarian diet, the mean intakes of some nutrients, such as the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are lower than in omnivores or those eating fish. For other nutrients, such as iron and zinc, the bioavailability from vegetable foodstuffs is reduced when the intake of phytates and fibre is high; thus, the prevalence of iron deficiency can be increased despite high vitamin C intake. In addition, vitamin B12 is only found in animal-source foods. Vitamin B12 should be supplemented in people of all age groups who follow a strict vegan diet without consuming animal products. A vegetarian diet in childhood and adolescence requires good information and supervision by a paediatrician, if necessary, in cooperation with an appropriately trained dietary specialist.

Risks and benefits of vegan and vegetarian diets in children

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-6
Author(s):  
Mairead E. Kiely
Keyword(s):  
Public Awareness ◽  
Essential Fatty Acids ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Vitamin B ◽  
Life Stages ◽  
Case Histories ◽  
Neurological Damage ◽  
Risks And Benefits ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

In parallel with increased public awareness of the health and environmental benefits of consuming a plant-based diet, the numbers of people who identify as vegan has increased sharply. The question of whether vegetarian and vegan diets are appropriate for children is a longstanding and unresolved controversy. The more restrictive the diet and the younger the child, the greater the risk of nutritional deficiency. Nutrients of potential concern are protein quantity and quality, iron, zinc, selenium, calcium, riboflavin, vitamins A, D, B12 and essential fatty acids. Although intakes and status of some nutrients (e.g. vitamin D and iron) are low in many children, vegan children are particularly susceptible due to inadequate supply and/or excess dietary fibre as well as other components that limit bioavailability. Although position papers from North America state that well-planned vegetarian and vegan diets, supplemented appropriately, are suitable for all life stages, European statements include strong recommendations to parents that vegan diets should not be adopted by children without medical and dietetic supervision. Case histories of malnutrition and serious harm persist, including irreversible neurological damage due to vitamin B12 deficiency among un-supplemented children. The evidence available to evaluate the nutritional appropriateness of vegetarian diets for children is inadequate and dated. Although nutritionally adequate vegetarian diets are more easily achieved, successful provision of a complete vegan diet for a young child requires substantial commitment, expert guidance, planning, resources and supplementation.

Health Implications of a Vegetarian Diet

2011 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 250-267 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kate Marsh ◽  
Carol Zeuschner ◽  
Angela Saunders
Keyword(s):  
Health Benefits ◽  
Saturated Fat ◽  
Vegetarian Diet ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Eating Pattern ◽  
Nutritional Needs ◽  
Vegetarian Diets ◽  
Treatment Of Obesity ◽  
Chronic Health Problems

There is now a significant amount of research that demonstrates the health benefits of vegetarian and plant-based diets, which have been associated with a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer as well as increased longevity. Vegetarian diets are typically lower in fat, particularly saturated fat, and higher in dietary fiber. They are also likely to include more whole grains, legumes, nuts, and soy protein, and together with the absence of red meat, this type of eating plan may provide many benefits for the prevention and treatment of obesity and chronic health problems, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Although a well-planned vegetarian or vegan diet can meet all the nutritional needs of an individual, it may be necessary to pay particular attention to some nutrients to ensure an adequate intake, particularly if the person is on a vegan diet. This article will review the evidence for the health benefits of a vegetarian diet and also discuss strategies for meeting the nutritional needs of those following a vegetarian or plant-based eating pattern.

scholarly journals Is vegan feeding advisable in first childhood?

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carmen Martín Salinas
Keyword(s):  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Complementary Feeding ◽  
Health Science ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Nutritional Deficiencies ◽  
Nutrient Deficiencies ◽  
Nutrient Supplementation ◽  
Bibliographic Search ◽  
Two Stages ◽  
Academic Search

Objective: To analyse if it is possible to correctly feed children with a vegan diet from birth. Method: A two stages bibliographic search was conducted. The first one was in Google Academic Search, using the information obtained for the introduction. The second one in the Health Science Database PubMed, Cinhal and Scopus where 26 publications were chosen. Results: The principal nutrient deficiencies that can be developed in vegan children were identified. Aferwards the growth curve of both vegan and omnivore children has been compared. In addition, we have clarified the nurses’ knowledge about people’s vegan nutritional requirements from birth. Finally, the benefits of following a vegan diet have been established. Discussion and conclusions: well-planned vegan diets allow an adequate development of children from birth. The only compulsory nutrient supplementation is vitamin B12. The healthcare professionals have an important role since they have to give the guidelines to introduce the complementary feeding. Also, they have to inform the parents how to avoid the nutritional deficiencies that can give rise to serious health consequences. Keywords: Infant, Child, Vegan diet, Vegetarianism, Nursing.

scholarly journals Knowledge of Health Professionals Regarding Vegetarian Diets from Pregnancy to Adolescence: An Observational Study

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 1149 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Enrica Bettinelli ◽  
Elena Bezze ◽  
Laura Morasca ◽  
Laura Plevani ◽  
Gabriele Sorrentino ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Service Learning ◽  
Health Professionals ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Vegetarian Diet ◽  
Life Cycles ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Correct Definition ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

The number of people adopting vegetarian diets is constantly increasing, and many among them are young parents who decide to share their diet with their children. The aim of this study was to investigate health professionals’ knowledge regarding the adoption of vegetarian diets from pregnancy to adolescence. A cross-sectional survey was conducted. The administered questionnaire, which was based on the recommendations of the most up-to-date guidelines, included two macro areas: The first investigated the sociodemographic and professional profile of the interviewees and the second addressed the knowledge of the participants regarding vegetarian diets. A total of 418 health professionals in Italy were interviewed, of whom 65.8% were nursing staff. Among the participants, 79.9% had not attended a nutrition course in the previous five years. A correct definition of a vegetarian/vegan diet was provided by 34.1% of the participants. The answers regarding knowledge of nutrients were correct in 20% of cases, whereas correct answers to questions assessing knowledge of the risk and benefits of a vegetarian diet and the adoption of a vegetarian diet throughout the life cycle were given by 45% and 39.4% of the participants, respectively. A significant correlation between the items of the second macro area that investigated the knowledge and dietary habits of the participants was found for seven items. The results of the study indicate that health professionals do not have complete and exhaustive knowledge about vegetarian diets and lack information on health outcomes and the adoption of a vegetarian diet throughout the different life cycles and nutrients. Improving pre- and in-service learning opportunities in vegetarian nutrition for health professionals is strongly advisable.

scholarly journals Effects of Vegetarian Diets on Blood Pressure Lowering: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (6) ◽  
pp. 1604
Author(s):  
Kai Wei Lee ◽  
Hong Chuan Loh ◽  
Siew Mooi Ching ◽  
Navin Kumar Devaraj ◽  
Fan Kee Hoo
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Sequential Analysis ◽  
Relative Effectiveness ◽  
Blood Pressure Reduction ◽  
Vegetarian Diet ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Trial Sequential Analysis ◽  
Cochrane Central Register ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

The beneficial effects of a vegetarian diet on blood pressure (BP) control have been reported in previous systematic reviews; however, so far, their relative effectiveness is not well established. Here, we performed a systematic review together with trial sequential analysis to determine the effect of a vegetarian diet on the reduction of blood pressure. We searched the randomized controlled trial (RCT) through Medline, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register. Fifteen eligible RCTs with 856 subjects were entered into the analysis. The pooled results demonstrated that vegetarian diet consumption significantly lowered the systolic blood pressure (weighted mean difference (WMD), −2.66 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI) = −3.76, −1.55, p < 0.001) and diastolic BP was WMD, −1.69 95% CI = −2.97, −0.41, p < 0.001) as compared to an omnivorous diet. In subgroup analysis, a vegan diet demonstrated a greater reduction in systolic BP (WMD, −3.12 mmHg; 95% CI = −4.54, −1.70, p < 0.001) as compared with a lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet (WMD, −1.75 mmHg, 95% CI −5.38, 1.88, p = 0.05). The vegan diet has showed a similar trend in terms of diastolic blood pressure reduction (WMD, −1.92 mmHg (95% CI = −3.18, −0.66, p < 0.001) but those with a lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet showed no changes in diastolic BP reduction (WMD, 0.00, 95% CI = 0.00, 0.00), p = 0.432). In conclusion, vegetarian diets are associated with significant reductions in BP compared with omnivorous diets, suggesting that they may play a key role in the primary prevention and overall management of hypertension.

scholarly journals Hematological status and functional abilities of the cardiorespiratory system of physically active female vegans

2020 ◽  
Vol 74 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-46
Author(s):  
Vladimir Ilić ◽  
Slobodanka Dobrijević ◽  
Nemanja Rebić
Keyword(s):  
Complete Blood Count ◽  
Hematological Parameters ◽  
Maximal Oxygen Consumption ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Standard Diet ◽  
Functional Abilities ◽  
Cardiorespiratory System ◽  
Blood Lipid Profile ◽  
Hematological Analysis

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of vegan diet on hematological parameters, and to compare the functional abilities of the cardiorespiratory system of vegans and counterparts on a standard diet. The sample consisted of 24 females, divided into two groups: 11 vegans and 13 women on a standard diet. Assessment of the level of physical activity of the participants was estimated by the standard IPAQ questionnaire. Hematological analysis included: complete blood count, blood lipid profile, vitamin B12 and iron. Basic anthropometric variables were monitored, and a submaximal Astrand test on a bicycle ergometer was used to estimate maximal oxygen consumption. The RAMP continuous protocol was used to measure the maximum values of heart rate and blood pressure. The results showed that active vegans have a significantly lower body weight and body mass index compared to active women on a standard diet. The number of erythrocytes and platelets, as well as LDL - cholesterol show lower values in vegans compared to the control group (p<0.01). Indicators of the functional abilities of the cardiorespiratory system do not differ between active vegans and women on a standard diet.

scholarly journals Cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons of metabolic profiles between vegetarian and non-vegetarian subjects: a matched cohort study

2015 ◽  
Vol 114 (8) ◽  
pp. 1313-1320 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yen-Feng Chiu ◽  
Chih-Cheng Hsu ◽  
Tina H. T. Chiu ◽  
Chun-Yi Lee ◽  
Ting-Ting Liu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Metabolic Profile ◽  
Fasting Blood Glucose ◽  
Vegetarian Diet ◽  
Vegan Diet ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Metabolic Traits ◽  
Elevated Glucose ◽  
Vegetarian Diets ◽  
The Impact

AbstractSeveral previous cross-sectional studies have shown that vegetarians have a better metabolic profile than non-vegetarians, suggesting that a vegetarian dietary pattern may help prevent chronic degenerative diseases. However, longitudinal studies on the impact of vegetarian diets on metabolic traits are scarce. We studied how several sub-types of vegetarian diets affect metabolic traits, including waist circumference, BMI, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), HDL, LDL, TAG and TC:HDL ratio, through both cross-sectional and longitudinal study designs. The study used the MJ Health Screening database, with data collected from 1994 to 2008 in Taiwan, which included 4415 lacto-ovo-vegetarians, 1855 lacto-vegetarians and 1913 vegans; each vegetarian was matched with five non-vegetarians based on age, sex and study site. In the longitudinal follow-up, each additional year of vegan diet lowered the risk of obesity by 7 % (95 % CI 0·88, 0·99), whereas each additional year of lacto-vegetarian diet lowered the risk of elevated SBP by 8 % (95 % CI 0·85, 0·99) and elevated glucose by 7 % (95 % CI 0·87, 0·99), and each additional year of ovo-lacto-vegetarian diet increased abnormal HDL by 7 % (95 % CI 1·03, 1·12), compared with non-vegetarians. In the cross-sectional comparisons, all sub-types of vegetarians had lower likelihoods of abnormalities compared with non-vegetarians on all metabolic traits (P<0·001 for all comparisons), except for HDL and TAG. The better metabolic profile in vegetarians is partially attributable to lower BMI. With proper management of TAG and HDL, along with caution about the intake of refined carbohydrates and fructose, a plant-based diet may benefit all aspects of the metabolic profile.

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