Size, obesity, and leanness in vegetarian preschool children
Dwyer, J.T.; Andrew, E.M.; Valadian, I.; Reed, R.B.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association 77(4): 434-439
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-8223 PMID: 7419836 Document Number: 163006
Anthropometric measurements of 142 children of vegetarian parents were analyzed for differences associated with age, sex, and dietary group (macrobiotic or other vegetarian groups). Measurements were made quarterly until age 2 and semi-annually thereafter. Results indicated overall differences between the measurements of these children and the appropriate nroms established by NCHS, as well as variations within the group. Vegetarian children, 12-35 months old, were more likely to have depressed subscapular skinfold measurements; macrobiotic vegetarian children were more likely to have lesser length and weight as well. These children should be monitored carefully to prevent the deficiencies they are more likely to suffer, particularly after weaning from breast feeding.