Growth Without Gaps: Large-Scale Study Finds Vegan and Vegetarian Babies Keep Pace with Meat-Eaters by Age Two

JERUSALEM — For years, the question of whether a strictly plant-based diet can support the rapid development of an infant has been a flashpoint for debate among parents and pediatricians alike. However, a landmark study published February 2, 2026, in JAMA Network Open offers the most robust reassurance to date. Researchers tracking nearly 1.2 million Israeli infants found that children raised on vegan and vegetarian diets follow growth trajectories nearly identical to their omnivorous peers by the time they reach 24 months of age. The findings suggest that in developed nations with access to fortified foods and regular medical oversight, plant-based upbringing does not compromise a child’s fundamental physical development.

A Massive Undertaking in Pediatric Research

The study, led by Kerem Avital from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, represents one of the largest analyses of its kind. Researchers leveraged Israel’s comprehensive national health records from 2014 to 2023, utilizing data from public family care centers (known as Tipat Halav clinics) which monitor approximately 70% of the nation’s infants.

The cohort included 1,198,818 singleton births. Families were categorized by their dietary patterns recorded at least six months postpartum:

• Omnivorous: 98.5%

• Vegetarian: 1.2%

• Vegan: 0.3%

By using World Health Organization (WHO) z-scores—a standardized way to measure how a child’s growth compares to the global average—researchers tracked weight, length, and head circumference through the critical first two years of life.

Closing the Gap: Key Findings

The data revealed that while vegan infants often started slightly smaller, they quickly caught up. At birth, vegan babies weighed approximately 3.5 ounces (100 grams) less than those in omnivorous families. In the first 60 days of life, vegan infants also showed a slightly higher likelihood of being classified as underweight.

However, these differences proved transient. By the 24-month mark:

• Growth Symmetry: Mean z-score differences across all groups were under 0.2. In clinical terms, this difference is considered insignificant by pediatricians.

• Stunting Rates: Rates of stunting (being significantly short for one’s age) were low and comparable across the board, dropping from roughly 7% in early infancy to between 3.1% and 3.9% by age two for all groups.

• Brain Development: Head circumference—a proxy for brain growth—showed no disparity between the groups.

“In the context of developed countries, these findings are highly reassuring,” said lead author Kerem Avital. “The data suggest that with the proper environment, plant-based diets do not compromise the fundamental physical development of infants.”

Context: Why the Concern Exists

The historical hesitation surrounding veganism in infancy stems from the risk of specific nutrient deficiencies, most notably Vitamin B12. Found naturally only in animal products, B12 is essential for neurological function and the formation of red blood cells.

In Israel, as in many developed nations, the “proper environment” mentioned by Avital includes routine pediatric checkups, the availability of fortified cereals, and a high level of health literacy among plant-based parents. The study noted that vegan mothers often have a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) and higher rates of breastfeeding, which may contribute to the slightly smaller birth weights but also provides a strong nutritional foundation when supplemented correctly.

Expert Perspectives: A Balance of Optimism and Vigilance

While the study is being hailed as a milestone, experts emphasize that “plant-based” does not mean “unplanned.”

“Nutritional counseling during pregnancy and infancy supports optimal development,” noted senior author Professor Danit R. Shahar. The study’s co-author, pediatric nutritionist Uri Hamiel, added that while the real-world data is strong, the quality of the diet still matters. A “vegan” diet consisting of processed snacks is vastly different from one centered on whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats.

External experts remain cautiously supportive. Dr. Myriam Van Winckel, a pediatric gastroenterologist who has previously warned of the risks of restrictive diets, notes that the margin for error is slimmer for vegan families. “The more restricted the diet, the greater the risk of deficiency,” she has cautioned. Without B12, iron, and zinc supplementation, vegan children remain at the highest risk for developmental delays.

Public Health and Practical Advice

The implications of this study are far-reaching. As more families move toward plant-based eating due to environmental concerns or ethical beliefs, public health policies may shift to better support these choices rather than discourage them.

For parents navigating these choices, the research offers a roadmap rather than a “free pass.” To ensure a child thrives on a plant-based diet, experts recommend:

1. Early Consultation: Work with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian specialized in pediatric nutrition before making the shift.

2. The B12 Essential: For breastfed vegan infants, B12 drops or fortified formula are often recommended starting around four months of age.

3. Protein Diversity: Focus on nutrient-dense proteins such as lentils, tofu, and (for vegetarians) eggs.

4. Monitoring: Continue regular “well-baby” visits to track growth milestones, as these screenings are what caught and corrected the early transient underweight trends seen in the study.

Limitations of the Research

Despite its scale, the study has limitations. The dietary data relied on single caregiver reports rather than daily food logs, meaning researchers couldn’t distinguish between a “whole-foods” vegan diet and a more processed one. Furthermore, the study concluded at age two, leaving questions about long-term bone density, cognitive development, and growth through puberty unanswered for now.

“Like building a house,” the researchers suggest, “strong foundations in the form of early nutrients ensure steady growth.” For now, it appears those foundations can be built just as effectively with plants as they can with meat.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any health-related decisions or changes to your treatment plan. The information presented here is based on current research and expert opinions, which may evolve as new evidence emerges.

References

Primary Study

• Avital K, Fliss-Isakov N, Shahar DR, et al. Growth Trajectories in Infants From Families With Plant-Based or Omnivorous Dietary Patterns. JAMA Network Open. 2026;9(2):e2557798. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.57798