What is it?
A vegan diet excludes all animal-derived foods and relies on vegetables, fruit, beans, lentils, grains, soy foods, nuts, seeds and fortified products.
Foods removed:
Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, gelatin and other animal-derived ingredients.
Potential health benefits:
A carefully planned vegan diet can be rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods. It can support healthy growth when calorie and nutrient needs are fully met.
Who may benefit most?
Families choosing vegan eating for ethical, cultural, environmental or personal reasons who are able to plan meals and use appropriate fortified foods or supplements.
How may it support an autistic child?
A varied plant-based diet may support bowel regularity and general health, but it does not treat autism. Autistic children with highly selective eating may have difficulty consuming enough legumes, vegetables, fortified products and other necessary foods.
Important nutrients to monitor:
Vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, iron, zinc, iodine, protein, omega-3 fats and total calories. Vitamin B12 must come from fortified foods or an appropriate supplement.