QuestionsCategory: Baby Led WeaningBefore my baby was born we were a vegan household – how do I maintain that whilst giving my baby what they need – I understand how to maintain it for adults but less sure for a 9 month old (question received via twitter)
Riverside Cares Staff asked 4 years ago
1 Answers
Riverside Cares Staff answered 4 years ago

Jill: Babies can easily be vegan, the challenge will be for you to ensure that your baby gets enough Vitamin B12 and the correct amount of iodine in their diet. Up to the age of one, all babies should be breastfed or given baby milk. Once they are over one year you can give your baby unsweetened calcium-fortified milk alternatives, such as soya, almond and oat milk, as part of a healthy, balanced diet. In one sense feeding a vegan baby is similar to feeding all babies in terms of introducing different a variety of foods. Nuts are a good source of protein but make sure they are in nut butter or are ground up or finely chopped to avoid the risk of choking.  You can gradually introduce your baby to the food the rest of the family are eating, but be careful about salt levels. I found some great information on the NHS website about vegan babies, hope you find it useful too https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/vegetarian-vegan-children/ and the vegan society looks to be another good resource https://www.vegansociety.com/resources/nutrition-and-health/life-stages/under-fives
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