• DFW Veggie Lovers have Bites and Brew meetup at Blue Sushi Grill on Saturday June 8th from 2 to 4pm.

• Veggie Outers meetup on Saturday June 8th, from 6 to 9pm, at Pizza twist in Irving.

• Not a vegan event but you all might like knowing about it.

  Holistic Festival of Life and Wellness Saturday June 8th 11 am to Sunday June 9th at 5pm CT at The Nature & Retreat Center.

• Mariachi’s Dine in One of the first restaurant serving vegan tacos in Ft Worth is closing.

• News coming out of UK site but I think it is great for Nutella lovers. Vegan Nutella is coming soon, hopefully we will see it soon on this side of the pond.

• A vegan business retreat in Hawaii, if you are looking to meet fellow vegans and entrepreneurs.

• A visual guide to 100 grams of protein. For all kinds of diet.

• Starbucks planning to launch non dairy whipped cream in the US?

• If you are going to be in New York City this summer or fall, check out this monthly Vegan night market in Central park

How a plant-based diet can help children thrive

The article discusses the growing trend of families adopting vegan or plant-based diets, which consist of vegetables, fruits, beans, grains, nuts, and seeds while excluding all animal-derived products. Research suggests that such diets are not only ethical and environmentally sustainable but also offer health benefits like better blood sugar control, improved digestion, and reduced risks of various diseases.

Despite evidence on benefits of plant-based diets, young families worry about meeting the nutritional needs of their kids. Contrary to some concerns, experts assert that well-planned vegan diets are safe and healthy for children. A 2021 study in Nutrition Research found that vegan children showed normal growth and were less often obese. Britain's NHS also endorses vegan diets for pregnant women and children when supplemented with critical nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.

Dr. Reshma Shah, a pediatrician, advises focusing on nutrition, safety, and variety when introducing solid foods to infants. She recommends iron-rich foods to prevent anemia and a diverse array of fruits and vegetables. Dietitian Stephanie McBurnett suggests foods high in healthy fats for children, such as avocado, tofu, and nut butter. After age one, children can transition to fortified soy or pea milk.

For older children, especially picky eaters, experts offer tips to make plant-based foods more appealing:

1. Don't stress or label meals as "vegan"

2. Provide plant-based versions of familiar foods

3. Lead by example

4. Offer processed plant-based products in moderation

5. Let children choose recipes and help with food preparation

Be patient and persistent, as it can take many exposures for a child to accept new foods

The article emphasizes that with proper planning and encouragement, a vegan diet can help children thrive.

Link to the SCMP article