My 2 daughters and I are vegetarian. My husband is not. I am a family wellness coach and I will tell you what I know.
I know that there are more steroids and hormones in our meat than our bodies can process.
I know that girls are experiencing puberty, as young as 8 in relation to the amount of meat they eat (hormones in the meat affects their own hormonal growth speed).
I know that medical studies prove that a vegetarian diet is easier to digest, provides a wider ranger of nutrients and imposes fewer burdens and impurities on the body.
I know vegetarians are less susceptible to all the major diseases, and thus live longer, healthier, more productive lives.
I know that vegetarians have fewer physical complaints, less frequent visits to the doctor, fewer dental problems and smaller medical bills.
I know that their immune system is stronger, their bodies are purer, more refined and skin more beautiful.
I know this is what I want for my daughters.
Talk to your husband. If he can show you just cause as to WHY your daughter SHOULD eat meat, then listen. Do the research, together. When my family did the research, my husband chose to be a "part time" meat eater. We don't have it in the house, but if we go out, he may chose to order it.
There are many sources of protein out there, head to Trader Joe's or Whole foods and talk to them, they are pretty knowledgeable. They even do classes, you can even meet other families. Join www.MeetUp.com and find a vegetarian group in your area.
My family uses these for our main protein source: http://liveitdontdiet.isagenix.com/us/en/isaleanshake.dhtml and http://liveitdontdiet.isagenix.com/us/en/isapro.dhtml. Many of my clients are using it instead of any sort of formula too!
We all have our nutritional smoothie for breakfast and maybe one after school and we know we have the vitamins, minerals, nutrients and protein for the day.
J., you and your husband must do what you know is right for your daughter. She is most important. Talk openly. Do the research. Decide together.
B.
Family Wellness Coach