 News
7th April 2006
Veggie diets could protect against killer diseases
A new study published in the Journal of Pediatric Health
Care says that vegetarian children could have a head start in life because
of their diet.
The study stated that vegetarian children and teenagers take in less
harmful cholesterol, saturated fat and total fat than children who ate
meat.
They also found that vegetarian children were more likely to eat more
fruit, vegetables and fibre.
The report said that vegetarian children are also leaner and have less
risk of developing several chronic diseases in adulthood.
"There is a wealth of research highlighting the advantages of vegetarian
diets," says health campaigner Amanda Woodvine, of the health charity,
Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation.
"They can lead to lifelong healthy eating habits when adopted at an early
age and because of this early start, the advantages will be felt throughout
life.
"It's the best way to cut the risk of killer diseases and improve
your kids' chances of a long and healthy future."
The Vegetarian and Vegan Foundation (VVF) is a health charity which scientifically
investigates the links between diet and health.
The authors of the report said that a well-balanced vegetarian diet can
be healthy and said nurses should "reassure parents, children, and
adolescents that a well-planned vegetarian diet is a healthy choice that
promotes growth and decreases the risk for diabetes, heart disease and
cancer."
The report follows recent news that West Sussex County Council refused
a vegetarian couple foster rights for not allowing meat to be eaten in
their home.
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