Effects of a Vegetarian Diet on Kids

People choose vegetarian diets for health reasons or for religious or cultural reasons, or because meat costs more than beans and other vegetarian proteins. The effect of a vegetarian diet on kids depends on whether the diet includes eggs and dairy or if it is vegan, meaning that no products that come from animals are consumed, including honey.

Fruits and Vegetables

• A positive effect of a vegetarian diet on kids is that they consume more fruits and vegetables because these serve as the basis of their diets. It can be a way of life, especially if they have been on a vegetarian diet from infancy.

Health Conditions

• Kid's Health says that one of the health benefits of a vegetarian diet includes a reduction of health risks such as heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer. These health effects occur because vegetarian diets include less saturated fat and cholesterol, and more magnesium, potassium, folate and antioxidants.

Digestive Health

• Kids on a vegetarian diet have better-functioning digestive systems because most healthy vegetarian diets contain a lot of fiber-rich foods such as beans and whole grains.

Iron Deficiency

• The negative effects of a vegetarian diet on kids include possible iron deficiency, because meat provides iron in many diets. The website of pediatrician Dr. Greene recommends a multivitamin containing iron to make up for this vitamin deficiency.

Vegan Protein Options

• Vegetarian diets have a positive effect on kids, but kids may not get enough protein when dairy or eggs are restricted. Vegan protein options include soy burgers, tofu, lentils, legumes, nuts, seeds and millet.

School Lunches

• Most schools do not offer vegetarian options for kids, so vegetarian parents will likely have to pack lunches in order for their children to get the right nutrients.