Vegetarianism is a growing trend with today's kids and teens. And just as parents need guidance on how to deal with this new lifestyle, kids need to know how to eat right to protect their growing bodies. Whether a teen chooses to eat meat or not, both diets can be equally healthy or unhealthy. Lacto-ovo vegetarians avoid meat, poultry and fish, but eat eggs and dairy products. Lacto vegetarians avoid meat, poultry, fish and eggs, but eat dairy products.
Vegans avoid all animal products.
But regardless of the type of vegetarian or even non-vegetarian, children often miss breakfast or lunch and eat the same food daily. Carelessly planned meals can lead to nutrient deficiencies, whether the child is a vegetarian or not. Protein - Eat a variety of plant foods and have an adequate intake of calories. Try legumes, meatless chili made with beans, meat substitutes made from textured vegetable protein, soy products, nuts, dairy products and eggs. Vitamin B12 - Eat fortified soy milk and some breakfast cereals.