Raising a child on a vegan diet can be incredibly rewarding — but it often comes with questions. One of the most common is: do vegan kids actually need supplements, or can they get everything from food alone?
The short answer is: sometimes. Let’s break it down simply and honestly.
Short answer: do vegan kids need supplements?
Some vegan children can meet their nutritional needs through a well-planned diet. Others may benefit from supplements — especially during key growth stages.
It depends on:
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Your child’s age
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How varied their diet is
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Whether there are nutrients that are harder to get consistently from food
This isn’t about doing anything “wrong” — it’s about support, not perfection.
Key nutrients vegan kids may struggle to get
A balanced vegan diet can be very healthy, but a few nutrients need extra attention.
Iron
Iron supports energy levels, growth, and brain development.
Plant-based iron exists, but it’s absorbed less efficiently than iron from animal sources — especially in younger children or fussy eaters.
Vitamin B12
B12 is essential for the nervous system and is not naturally found in plant foods. Most vegan children need a reliable fortified food or supplement source.
Vitamin D
In the UK, sunlight alone often isn’t enough — especially in autumn and winter. This applies to vegan and non-vegan children alike.
Omega-3 (DHA)
Omega-3 supports brain and eye development. Plant sources exist, but converting them into DHA isn’t always efficient, particularly for kids.
When supplements make sense for vegan children
Supplements can be helpful if your child:
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Eats a limited variety of foods
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Is going through a growth spurt
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Avoids fortified foods
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Follows a fully plant-based diet long-term
They’re not a replacement for food — they’re a safety net.
What to look for in a kids’ supplement
If you do choose supplements, these things matter:
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100% vegan (including vitamin sources)
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Clear sugar labelling — no vague claims
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Age-appropriate doses
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A format kids will actually take (gummies are often easier than tablets)
Transparency is key. Parents deserve to know exactly what they’re giving their children.
How Vegums fits into a balanced vegan diet
Vegums gummy vitamins are designed to support vegan kids where diet alone may fall short — without over-promising or hiding ingredients.
They’re:
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Fully vegan
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Clearly labelled (including sugar content)
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Made with kids and parents in mind
Used alongside a varied diet, they can help fill nutritional gaps with confidence.
Final thought
If you’re ever unsure, a GP or registered dietitian can help assess your child’s individual needs. Supplements aren’t about fear — they’re about informed support.
