Christine Webb, Your Health & Fitness

Ten percent of American schoolchildren are now vegetarians. That's according to the American Dietetic Association. There are many reasons why kids become vegetarians, and parents may be concerned if their kids will still get all the nutrients they need.

The ADA says a vegetarian diet can lead to deficiencies in vitamin b12, calcium, iron and protein -- nutrients vital to growing children. The group says parents need to make sure their kids eat a varied, balanced diet, and get regular checkups.

"If you're deficient in protein it would impede your height, your muscle mass, your bones and the way your body functions, your ability to fight disease.," said spokeswoman Katherine Tallmadge.

If monitored carefully, pediatricians say vegetarian children will grow up just as healthy as children who eat a regular variety of foods.

If you would like to see this story or other Health & Fitness stories... You can see it on News 13 On Demand.....at no extra cost. Just go to channel 313 on your digital cable.