Childhood obesity is a problem that continues to grow in this country. One recent study looked at the effects of a vegetarian diet on childhood obesity. Childhood obesity can increase a child’s risk of type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes either later in life or much sooner. Research indicates that vegetarian diets are associated with a lower body mass index (BMI) and a lower prevalence of obesity in both adults and children. Compared to children who eat meat, vegetarian children have a lower body weight and lower BMIs. Hence, they have lower rates of obesity.

Omnivores vs. Vegetarians

Foods that come from animals (meat, dairy, eggs) were found to be associated with a higher risk of being overweight. Foods found to be preventive or show no association to being overweight were plant foods (cereals, legumes, nuts) and fruits, vegetables, and vegetable protein products, respectively. Since plant-based diets are not high in energy density, are high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and water, they may help children to feel fuller and to increase their resting energy expenditure. Therefore, a vegetarian diet may be helpful in preventing childhood obesity.

Should Your Child Become a Vegetarian?

It may not be plausible for your child to eat a fully vegetarian diet, but just decreasing the number of times your child eats meat during the week may help to prevent obesity and other health complications. The main reason why animal foods would lead to obesity is that they are high in saturated fats. However, these foods are fine in moderation. If your child is already vegetarian and following a healthy diet, then they already have protection against obesity and other adverse health outcomes.

Written by Camp Shane Nutritionist, Jessica Bouchard

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Tags: BMI, body mass index, Childhood Obesity, diet, vegetarian

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 26th, 2010 at 1:04 pm by The Shane Nutrition Staff and is filed under Childhood Obesity, Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyles, Parenting. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.