Author, teacher, artist and activist Ruby Roth is one of the leading individuals today, who educates and speaks about the topic of veganism and children. Unfortunately this topic has all too often been painted in a very negative way by the media and various personalities. As things stand, most adults are not well informed about the best approach when it comes to their own diet, never mind the diets of children. It therefore comes as no surprise that a lot of fear and ignorance pervades this topic.
But it is not only children’s vegan nutrition that is making some people uncomfortable. In one of her media appearances, Ruby was questioned about the written and visual content presented in one of her books for children about veganism — Vegan is Love. I invite you to watch this video interview here, where the interviewers present some of the public’s criticisms about the appropriateness of exposing children to the content she shares in it, regarding the fate of animals that are used for food and other products, and hear Ruby’s eloquent answers.
The truth is that the average child sees and hears more violent programming within the first few years of their life of the type that makes this author’s book look like a fairytale. The same goes for what kids are being fed today. The average child, from any income level, eats a diet that is nutrient-deficient and/or harmful for them from the moment they can handle solid food, not to mention the controversial formula alone, that many babies get. Most kids are brought up on too much fast food, processed food, refined food and animal food, and not enough whole food and plant food, specifically fruits and vegetables.
So we need to be honest as a society, about what is really bothering us about the topic of veganism and children, and it all comes down to our own unwillingness to change.
The fact is that anyone who is open to it and does even a little learning about the topic will quickly know that vegan diets based on whole, plant foods with basic variety are not only safe for children, but like for us adults, better for them as well. Whether we look towards mainstream dietary organizations like the American Dietetic Association or leading-edge dietary organizations, like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine the message is the same from anyone who is properly educated about the subject.
It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.
Vegetables, grains, fruits, legumes, and nuts are the optimal foods for children. Rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, they form the foundation for dietary habits that support a lifetime of health.
To learn more or hear more from Ruby Roth on this subject, watch the following video episodes, where Ruby was a guest here on EBTV.
- Tips for Raising a Vegan Child with Ruby Roth