Abstract
The popularity of alternative nutritional trends, including veganism, has grown considerably in the 21st century. According to surveys, the reasons for reducing the consumption of animal products include, in particular, ethical issues and the pursuit of an environmentally sustainable lifestyle.
Changing the diet with the exclusion of animal sources is also considered by general public and some experts as a suitable preventive measure to reduce the incidence of lifestyle diseases in adults. The trend these days begins to affect pediatric population more often.
However, the exclusion of all animal sources carries significant risks - especially in the lack of certain micro- and macronutrients. Risk micronutrients include vitamin B12, vitamin D, iodine, zinc, calcium, iron and n-3 fatty acids.
Regarding macronutrients, insufficient protein and energy intake may be significant. The national guidelines in vegan diet in childhood differ dramatically.
The Working Groups on Nutrition in France and Germany do not recommend vegan diets in children and adolescents because of the possible nutritional deficits mentioned above. On the other hand, Italy and the United States guidelines consider a varied and balanced vegan diet to be an adequate alternative to the conventional diet if regular supplementation is provided.