The Effects of Dietary Misinformation on Children, Part 1 of 2

Today, we’ll debunk some of the most frequent myths about vegan eating. Join us as we uncover the truth behind vegan living and ensure our children have access to accurate information for a healthier future.

One of the most persistent myths surrounding veganism is the belief that vegan diets are inadequate for obtaining sufficient protein. This misconception has been thoroughly debunked time and again. The truth is that there is an abundance of vegan sources rich in protein. Lentils, beans, peas, nuts, mushrooms, soy products like tofu, broccoli, quinoa, and even pasta are just a few examples of the vast array of protein-packed vegan options available. The acclaimed Netflix documentary “The Game Changers” explores this topic, showcasing the numerous benefits of vegan eating for athletes and highlighting the success stories of vegan athletes at the top of their game. “When I made the switch to a plant-based diet, I qualified for my third Olympic team, I broke two American records. I was like, man, I should have done this a long while ago.”

Another common myth is that dairy is essential for strong bones and beneficial for children’s growth. But the truth is that calcium, a mineral crucial for bone health, can be acquired from a variety of sources beyond just animal-people milk and cheese. Leafy greens like kale and broccoli contain calcium, as do calcium-set tofu and fortified plant milks. Some nuts and seeds like almonds, flax seeds, and sesame seeds contribute to your and your children’s daily calcium intake. For example, just 1 cup of cooked collard greens contains 268 milligrams of calcium – over 20% of the recommended intake.

A concerning example of misinformation aimed at kids comes from the beef industry’s campaign to shape young minds about animal- people meat consumption. The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture (AFBFA), a beef industry group, has been producing lesson plans and resources for teachers across the US for years. By influencing curriculum materials, the beef industry aims to sway these impressionable minds, potentially undermining youth’s desire for environmentally-conscious choices. This threatens to misinform children about industrial animal-people meat’s realities while stifling their ability to make informed decisions impacting the planet. There is growing evidence that consumption of animal-people meat, especially processed and red meats, can have detrimental effects on children’s health at various developmental stages.