The doctor named the rules of observance of Lent by children

During Great Lent, believers adhere to strict dietary restrictions. On March 10, Elena Petryaikina, Professor, MD, Director of the Russian Children's Clinical Hospital of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, chief freelance specialist, pediatric endocrinologist for the Central Federal District of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, told Izvestia about how to properly observe the religious tradition for children.

It is possible for children to observe Lent, but dietary changes for them should be much less harsh, since their body is in the stage of active growth and development, she noted. If restrictions are created, the child may lack important vitamins, minerals, micro- and macronutrients.

"In a lean menu, as a rule, there is not enough protein food, which is extremely important for the growth of a child. Protein is a building material for tissues and cells, and it is also important for building muscle mass. Its deficiency can slow down growth, negatively affect mental development and even reduce the protective functions of the body," the doctor emphasized.

She recalled that if fasting is observed, it is necessary to temporarily exclude or strictly limit the main sources of animal protein — meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Therefore, it is very important to include in the child's diet during this period foods rich in vegetable protein, such as lentils, peas, beans, nuts.

"It should be remembered that the absence of meat in the diet for a long time can lead to a decrease in iron reserves in the body, so it is not recommended to completely abandon it for children with diagnosed anemia," Petryaikina said.

Great Orthodox Lent in 2025: daily meals, prohibitions and restrictions

In Lent, they eat foods rich in carbohydrates. However, it will not saturate for a long time, which can cause overeating and a calorie surplus. It is recommended to add to the child's diet foods containing both proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the amount necessary for age.

Some people completely abstain from food during Lent, or they eat once a day. The doctor did not recommend using this approach to children with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, iron deficiency, diabetes mellitus and cancer.

"Severe dietary restrictions at a young age, when the psyche is still not strong enough, can contribute to the development of eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia," the specialist warned.

She also did not recommend forcing a child to fast.

On March 5, Maxim Maskin, a gastroenterologist at Olympus Clinic Mars, told Izvestia about the health risks during Lent. Abrupt rejection of animal foods can cause nutritional imbalances, especially in patients with chronic diseases. Also, during fasting, people increase their carbohydrate intake, which can lead to weight gain, impaired metabolism, and in some cases, an exacerbation of infectious and allergic diseases, he added.