Vegan diet in young children remodels metabolism and challenges the statuses of essential nutrients

ABSTRACT: Vegan diets are gaining popularity, also in families with young children. However, the effects of strict plant-based diets on metabolism and micronutrient status of children are unknown. We recruited 40 Finnish children with a median age 3.5 years - vegans, vegetarians or omnivores from same daycare centers - for a cross-sectional study. They enjoyed nutritionist-planned vegan or omnivore meals in daycare, and the full diets were analyzed with questionnaires and food records. Detailed analysis of serum metabolomics and biomarkers indicated vitamin A insufficiency and border-line sufficient vitamin D in all vegan participants. Their serum total, HDL and LDL cholesterol, essential amino acid and docosahexaenoic n-3 fatty acid (DHA) levels were markedly low and primary bile acid biosynthesis

SUBMITTER: Topi Hovinen 

PROVIDER: S-SCDT-EMM-2020-13492P | biostudies-other |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other