Child Vegetarian

mlb929

My youngest child is a vegetarian - the rest of our family isn't. He has refused to eat meat from the day he started eating real food. He loves Peanut Butter, will sometimes eat eggs, and will eat cheese. He's thin, but fit and healthy. He's been doing my P90X with me, and doing great.

Anyone know if a protein bar or muscle milk product is an OK idea for a child? I don't use these myself. But I'm looking for something to ensure that he is getting enough nutrients. I really know little about a vegetarian diet.

Oh - and I should add, he has celiac disease so no gluten in his diet.

ashlee954

Hmmmm, I would really consult your pediatrician on that one. Especially since he is young AND has a condition in which certain foods can harm him. Good luck!

noneya2010

I recently did some research on celiac and remember it specifically said protein bars do have gluten adn binders. If you have a health food store around, they might carry some gluten free ones though.

rodegghero

I am raising my daughter mostly veg. If you make sure your child gets enough fruit, veg, whole grains, dairy and eggs...then they are getting enough and will be Fine! See if you can find a vegetarian or a health food store worker help you keep it balanced.

hippiejew

I follow a pescatarian diet which is a vegetarian diet with the addition of fish on occassions, and since beginning my food logs here I was surprised that I actually get PLENTY of protein in my diet. Some vegetarian choices for protein include beans and legumes, so the peanut butter is a great choice, but also try to include beans in his diet regularly. Soy products on the market such as Morning Star are also packed full of protein, some of my favorites are their "chicken" nuggets and buffalo nuggets, and they also have many choices for veggie burgers. As long as he is eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies and eating some form of protein everyday he should be fine.

dspearsb

My kids aren't vegetarian but do enjoy CLIF Z Bars as a healthy snack. They are they "kids" version of an energy bar. I found them in the organic section of the grocery store. I also make sure they get a daily vitamin.