Work

Bone and mineral metabolism in 2–7-year-old Finnish children and their caregivers following vegan, vegetarian, and omnivorous diets

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: Limited evidence exists on the effects of plant-based diets (PBDs) on bone metabolism, especially in children. We studied bone and mineral metabolism and intakes of bone-related nutrients in 2-7-year-old children and their caregivers who followed vegan, vegetarian (collectively referred to as PBD), and omnivorous diets. METHODS: Blood samples were collected from 29, 18, and 24 children following vegan, vegetarian, or omnivorous diets (mean age 4.5 ± 1.5 years, 51% girls) and from 29, 23, and 24 adult caregivers, respectively (mean age 38.2 ± 4.4 years, 57% women). Serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (S-TRAP5b), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (S-BAP), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (S-25(OH)D), and plasma parathyroid hormone (P-PTH) were analysed using linear trends by contrast analysis [adjusted for age, sex, and (standardized) body mass index]. Nutrient intakes were calculated from 3-day food records. RESULTS: Linear trends towards higher concentrations of P-PTH among children and bone resorption marker S-TRAP5b and bone formation marker S-BAP among adults in PBDs were observed (P < 0.05). Mean vitamin D intakes (diet + supplements) were adequate (> 10 µg/d), mean 25(OH)D concentrations were > 70 nmol/l, vitamin D supplement use was common (74-100%), and mean calcium intakes were approximately adequate in all age and diet groups. Protein intake was lower in PBDs (12-14 E%) than in omnivores (16-17 E%) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Linear trends towards increased bone catabolism among children and accelerated bone turnover among adults following PBDs were observed despite adequate vitamin D status and approximately adequate calcium intake. The role of lower protein intake and calcium bioavailability in PBDs and bone health requires further investigation.

Source: European Journal of Nutrition

DOI: 10.1007/s00394-025-03758-y