If your teen has declared he or she is now a vegetarian, it may be a phase – or it may be a lifelong dietary decision. Here’s some helpful information on the topic.
Vegetarian or Vegan?
First, define the terms associated with vegetarianism. A vegetarian chooses a diet that excludes meat, fish and poultry. Vegans exclude not only meat products but also meat by-products like eggs, milk, and other dairy products and in strict form, being a vegan also includes the practice of not wearing wool, leather and other animal products as well. Lacto-vegetarianism includes dairy products but excludes eggs, while ovo-vegetarianism includes eggs but not dairy, and lacto-ovo-vegetarianism includes both eggs and dairy products. Semi-vegetarians often eat fish.
Parenting Vegetarian Teens
Parents of a teen making these dietary choices will need to know the specifics of the teen’s dietary choices in order to provide appropriate groceries. It’s important to remember that vegetarianism has been associated with lower risk for cancer, heart disease and other illnesses. Protein is the main concern when providing meals for vegetarians. Peanut butter, all types of beans, avocado, and dairy products (if the teen eats these) are all excellent sources of protein as well as certain vegetables like broccoli and spinach.
Other Factors
Another factor to consider when parenting a vegetarian teen is that often members of society (and potentially even members of the teen’s own family) are sarcastic or unsupportive, making rude comments about the teen’s dietary choices. This should be dealt with directly by parents of teens, who can also work with their child to think of ways to respond to potential verbal inappropriateness. Another factor to consider is that if the teen is going to be eating at a family function, hosts should be made aware of the teen’s dietary choice so that alternative foods may be made available if necessary.
Understanding Your Teen’s Choice
As a parent you should take an interest in your teen’s choice. Why has the teen chosen to become a vegetarian? Is it because he or she wants to lead a healthier lifestyle? Is it because the teen is concerned about animal cruelty and slaughter practices? The decision to become a vegetarian is not one that should be made lightly, so it is helpful to understand and support your teen’s crucial lifestyle decision.
Becoming a vegetarian may be a dietary phase for your teen, or it may be a lifelong decision. Either way, as a parent it is helpful to involve yourself in your teen’s choice. Bringing a vegetarian teen to the grocery store to make some of his or her own dietary choices directly is a helpful way to be supportive.
Read more articles about Parenting Teens.
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