Open AccessVegan diet in young children remodels metabolism and challenges the statuses of essential nutrients
Author(s) -
Hovinen Topi,
Korkalo Liisa,
Freese Riitta,
Skaffari Essi,
Isohanni Pirjo,
Niemi Mikko,
Nevalainen Jaakko,
Gylling Helena,
Zamboni Nicola,
Erkkola Maijaliisa,
Suomalainen Anu
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
embo molecular medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.923
H-Index - 107
eISSN - 1757-4684
pISSN - 1757-4676
DOI - 10.15252/emmm.202013492
Subject(s) - vegan diet , micronutrient , omnivore , vitamin , medicine , essential nutrient , endocrinology , physiology , biology , nutrient , paleontology , ecology , pathology , predation
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, and phospholipid balance was distinct from omnivores. Possible combination of low vitamin A and DHA status raise concern for their visual health. Our evidence indicates that (i) vitamin A and D status of vegan children requires special attention; (ii) dietary recommendations for children cannot be extrapolated from adult vegan studies; and (iii) longitudinal studies on infant‐onset vegan diets are warranted.