Vegan Health Tips with Michael Klaper, M.D.

Michael Klaper, M.D. is the author of Pregancy, Children, and the Vegan Diet; one of only a few books that covers vegan pregnancy on the market today. He has postgraduate training in medicine, surgery, anesthesiology, and obstetrics. He continues to educate people on the benefits of a vegan diet.

Disclaimer: The medical opinions stated here are for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.

Question:

Short of a blood test, how do I know my baby is getting all her nutrients?

Answer:

The ultimate measure of a child's nutritional adequacy is their rate of growth. As long as her growth is progressing in a normal range for her age, size, and weight (this can be determined by plotting her growth on a chart available through your doctor's office or on the Internet), you can assume she is obtaining sufficient nutrients. Of course, if any abnormal physical signs appear; e.g., dry skin, cracking nails, and especially "falling off the growth curve" (increase in height and weight failing to parallel a standard growth curve), etc., check with your physician to rule out organic disease or nutritional deficiency.

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