A large-scale study of nearly 50,000 children has revealed that those following vegan diets tend to be shorter and leaner than their meat-eating peers, highlighting the importance of careful nutritional planning.
Published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, the research represents the most comprehensive analysis of its kind to date.
The study included 7,280 vegetarian children, 1,289 vegans, and 40,059 omnivores across 18 countries. Findings showed that vegan children were, on average, 3.6 cm (1.4 inches) shorter and 1.17 kg (2.6 lbs) lighter than omnivores. Vegetarian children were 1.2 cm shorter and 0.69 kg lighter.
Both groups also had lower body mass index (BMI) and leaner body composition compared to children consuming meat. Researchers emphasized that these figures represent averages and are generally within normal growth ranges, not indicating widespread health issues, but do highlight a consistent pattern of dietary impact.
The study identified a nutritional trade-off in plant-based diets. While vegan and vegetarian children consumed more fibre, iron, folate, and vitamin C, they consistently had lower intakes of protein, fat, vitamin B12, calcium, zinc, and iodine—nutrients critical for growth.
Experts stress that plant-based diets for children are not inherently unhealthy but require careful planning, supplementation, and monitoring to ensure proper development.
Despite the differences in growth, plant-based children displayed notable health benefits. Vegetarian children, in particular, showed better cardiovascular markers, including lower total and LDL cholesterol levels.
The findings indicate that with appropriate dietary management, children can thrive on plant-based diets, though caregivers must address key nutrient gaps to support healthy growth and development.
This research provides an essential roadmap for parents and health professionals, balancing the benefits of plant-based eating with the challenges of supporting children’s growth and nutritional needs.
